Quercus shumardii aka Shumard Oak

Taxonomy

Quercus shumardii, also known as the Shumard oak, spotted oak, Schneck oak, Shumard red oak, or swamp red oak, is a large deciduous tree belonging to the red oak group (Quercus section Lobatae). It is closely related to Quercus buckleyi, Quercus texana, and Quercus gravesii. This medium-sized tree can reach heights of up to 18m and has a pyramidal shape in its early stages, gradually spreading to form a broad, open crown as it matures. The glossy green leaves are deeply-cut, measuring up to 20cm in length, and feature 7-9 lobes with noticeable tufts of hairs on the undersides. In autumn, the leaves turn either red or golden-brown. Inconspicuous greenish flowers appear in spring, followed by acorns in the autumn that are usually solitary and can grow up to 2.5cm long. While Shumard oak is typically found in moist locations in bottomlands, lowlands, and along streams and lakes in central and southern Missouri, it is more commonly seen on dry, elevated sites in the St. Louis area. Its habit and appearance are similar to the scarlet oak.

Common names

Shumard Oak, Shumard Red Oak, Spotted Oak

How to care for Shumard Oak

Difficulty

Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Shumard Oak due to its easy-going nature.

Water

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

Soil

Shumard 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

Shumard Oak thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Spotted Oak.

Toxicity

Shumard 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 rate of Shumard Oak is slow and it doesn't necessitate additional fertilizing. By changing the soil in its pot annually, the plant should be provided with adequate nutrition. It is crucial to keep in mind that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizers.

Growth-pattern

Shumard Oak grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.

Region of origin

Shumard Oak’s native range is South-eastern N. America - Michigan to Florida and west to Texas.


More info:
Wikipedia