Quercus imbricaria aka Shingle Oak

Taxonomy

Quercus imbricaria, or shingle oak, is a deciduous tree in the red oak group native to the Midwestern and Upper South regions of the US. It grows best in uplands with good drainage, though it can also be found in lowland streams at elevations of 100–700 meters. The tree can grow to be 50-60 feet (15-18 meters) tall, with a broad pyramidal head when young that turns open and broad-topped in old age. Bark of young stems is light brown and smooth, while branchlets are slender and dark green. The pale reddish-brown wood is heavy and hard, used for shingles and sometimes for construction. Winter buds are light brown, ovate, and acute, about one-eighth inch long. Shingle Oak is a super rare houseplant with average needs: regular watering, long-lasting, direct light, and soil that is well-draining. It should not need fertilizers if repotted properly. Although it is not safe to consume, those with children, cats, or dogs should keep the plant out of reach.

Common names

Shingle Oak, Jack Oak, Northern Laurel Oak

How to care for Shingle Oak

Difficulty

Shingle Oak is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal attention, making it an excellent choice for beginners.

Water

Shingle Oak should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Shingle Oak loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Shingle Oak requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Shingle Oak will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Toxicity

Shingle Oak is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.

Fertilizer

The growth of Shingle Oak is not rapid and it doesn't necessitate any extra fertilization. By replacing its potting soil once a year, it should receive ample nutrition. It is important to note that plants obtain their energy from the sun's rays, not from fertilizers.

Growth-pattern

New growth will sprout from the top of the plant as it grows upwards.

Region of origin

Shingle Oak’s native range is Eastern and Central N. America - Pennsylvania to Alabama, west to Kansas.


More info:
Wikipedia