The Chestnut Oak is a long lived, ornamental tree with a sluggish to medium development rate. It can rise to a stature of 60’ with a spread of up to 50’ and a rounded crown. It should be planted in zones 4-8 in full to partial sun. However, the younger trees can be shade tolerant. Even though it is usually found in dry, rocky soil, it prefers its soil to be moist and well-drained with an acidic pH. It is very tolerant of drought conditions.
The Stunning Graphic Appeal Of Chestnut Oak Seedlings
The broad leaves of the Chestnut Oak Seedlings are dark green on the top and gray green underneath and leathery to the touch. It is smooth underneath with wavy margins. In the fall, the leaves will first turn a yellowish orange then turn to rusty brown. The thick bark is light to medium gray. Older trees have triangular ridges with deep furrows in between them. Acorns will develop in one season and mature in September to October. They are oval shaped and about 1”-1.5” long.
Chestnut Oaks Produce Nuts
The top half of the nut is covered with a bumpy cap. The terminal buds are light chestnut brown, large, and pointed. In mid-spring, hairy catkins begin to appear on the tree. In May, small pollen-bearing, yellowish-green flowers appear in the catkins. These flowers are usually unnoticeable through the young leaves. These trees can be complex to transplant due to their deep taproot.
Attract Wildlife With Chestnut Oaks
Chestnut Oak Seedlings will attract white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, song birds, and cavity-nesting birds. Their durable wood can be used for construction and fuel. The bark has a high level of tannin, which is used in tanning leather. Landscapers use this as a shade tree and along streets.