Relatively fast-growing and adaptable, Quercus shumardii (Shumard Oak) is a medium-sized, deciduous tree of pyramidal habit in youth, becoming upright-spreading and open with age. The foliage of deeply-cut, lustrous, dark green leaves adorned with 7-9 lobes, turns brilliant reddish to yellow-bronze in the fall. Inconspicuous yellow-green catkins appear in spring as the new leaves unfurl. The acorns, if produced, have a broadly rounded apex and a flat base. The thick, smooth, gray bark becomes furrowed and darker gray over time. Prized for its spectacular fall color, drought resistance, and ability to withstand short-term flooding, Shumard Oak makes a handsome shade tree.

• Grows up to 40-60 ft. tall (12-18 m) and 30-40 ft. wide (9-12 m).
• A full sun lover, this tree is easily grown in dry to medium moisture, acidic, well-drained soils. Tolerates a wide range of soil conditions including wet soils. Drought tolerant.
• Oaks may be affected by oak wilt, chestnut blight, shoestring root rot, anthracnose, oak leaf blister, cankers, leaf spots and powdery mildew.
• Propagate by seed or by grafting in mid-autumn or late winter.
• Toxic to horses.
• Native to southern United States.