Also known as Jack Oak · Laurel Oak · Northern Laurel Oak
Shingle Oak (Quercus imbricaria) is a medium-sized deciduous oak with a dense, pyramidal shape and smooth, unlobed leaves. It offers year-round visual appeal with its dar
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Thrives in full sun, which promotes the best growth and most dense foliage. Can tolerate partial shade but may become leggy.
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers consistent moisture, especially when young. Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Increase watering during drought.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Wide Range
50% intensity
Hardy in USDA zones 4-8, tolerating a broad range of temperatures from cold winters to warm summers.
Low
25% intensity
Young trees benefit from annual feeding. Mature trees generally require no fertilization unless exhibiting signs of deficiency.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Shingle Oak prefers consistent moisture, especially when young. Water deeply and regularly, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Reduce watering frequency once established, but provide supplemental water during prolonged dry spells to maintain optimal health and growth.
Prune Shingle Oak to shape young trees and remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. The best time for structural pruning is during the dormant season (late winter or early spring).
Avoid heavy pruning, and focus on maintaining the tree's natural form for best results.
Propagation is typically done from seed, which requires stratification. Collect acorns in autumn, stratify them in a moist medium for 3-4 months in refrigeration, and then sow them in spring.
Grafting is also possible but less common for this species.
Repotting is not typically applicable to Shingle Oak as it is a large, long-lived tree usually planted directly into its final location. Container-grown young trees may require repotting into larger containers as they grow, ensuring adequate root space.
Identify plants like this with ePlant AI
Snap a photo to get care tips and match similar species on the go.
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Shingle Oak (Quercus imbricaria)
Where Shingle Oak (Quercus imbricaria) is found
Density
Tap map to explore
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fagales |
| Family | Fagaceae |
| Genus | Quercus |
| Species | Quercus imbricaria |
Similar in genus Quercus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
