Quercus muehlenbergii aka Chinkapin Oak

Taxonomy ID: 1505

Quercus muehlenbergii, otherwise known as the chinkapin or chinquapin oak, is a deciduous species of tree in the white oak group (Quercus sect. Quercus). The species was often called Quercus acuminata in older literature and is native to eastern and central North America, with a range that extends from Vermont to Minnesota, south to the Florida panhandle, and west to New Mexico in the United States, and from Coahuila to Hidalgo in Mexico. It is also found in southern Ontario, Canada. Chinkapin Oak is a medium-sized tree, typically growing 40-60 (less frequently to 80) feet tall, with an open globular crown, and produces monoecious yellowish-green flowers in spring. Its narrow, oblong-lanceolate, shiny green leaves (4-7” long) have coarse marginal teeth, somewhat resembling the leaves of chestnut (Castanea). Its fruits are small oval acorns (to 3/4” long), with scaly cups that extend to approximately 1/2 the acorn length. Acorns are valued as food for a variety of wildlife. Fall color is variable, but usually undistinguished shades of yellow and brown. As a rare houseplant, Chinkapin Oak isn't challenging to grow and needs regular watering to do well; it should be less than 1 foot from a window and the soil should be well-draining. Chinkapin Oak is not safe to consume; if you, a family member, or a pet have ingested any, contact Poison Control, US (800) 222-1222, or your veterinarian. If you have children, cats, or dogs in the home, it is suggested to keep this plant out of reach.

Common names

Chinkapin Oak, Chinquapin Oak, Yellow Chestnut Oak

More information about Chinkapin Oak

How difficult is it to take care of Chinkapin Oak

With its straightforward care requirements, Chinkapin Oak is a hassle-free plant that anyone can enjoy.

What is the region of origin of Chinkapin Oak

Chinkapin Oak’s native range is Eastern N. America - Vermont and Ontario to Minnesota, Nebraska, Alabama and Texas.

What are the water needs for Chinkapin Oak

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

What is the right soil for Chinkapin Oak

Chinkapin 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.

What is the sunlight requirement for Chinkapin Oak

To ensure optimal growth, the Chinkapin Oak prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

How to fertilize Chinkapin Oak

The Chinkapin Oak is known for its slow growth and doesn't require fertilizing beyond its potting soil. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should offer it sufficient nutrition. It's essential to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not from fertilizers.

Is Chinkapin Oak toxic to humans/pets?

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

More info:
Wikipedia