Swamp white oak (Quercus bicolor)

Also known as: Swamp White Oak

The swamp white oak, native to the central and north-central United States, typically grows to a mature height of 50 to 60 feet (15 to 18 meters). It has a moderate growth rate, averaging about 12 to 24 inches (30 to 61 cm) annually. While this tree produces acorns, they generally do not appear until it reaches 20 to 30 years of age.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Swamp white oak

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Tree

Plant Height

18 m to 29 m

Spread

15 m to 18 m

Leaf Color

Green Yellow Gold Brown

Flower Size

3 mm

Flower Color

Yellow Green Red Gold Cream Brown Bronze Burgundy

Images of Swamp white oak

Quickly Identify Swamp white oak

Distinctive two-tone oblong leaves with silvery white undersides.

Prominent broad to oval crown with textured, ridged, and furrowed bark.

Shiny light brown acorns, one-third capped with grayish scales.

Male flowers in yellow-green catkins and female flowers in green to red spikes.

Thick, stout trunk with mature bark displaying deep furrows and scaly texture.

Scientific Classification of Swamp white oak

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Fagales

Family

Beech

Genus

Oaks

Species

Swamp white oak

Planting and Growing of Swamp white oak

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

50-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Swamp white oak?

When watering Quercus bicolor, aim to soak the soil thoroughly without causing waterlogging. The key is to water deeply so that the entire root zone gets sufficient moisture, mimicking the natural conditions in which this oak species thrives. Allow the top few inches of soil to dry out slightly between watering sessions.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Swamp white oak? ›

What should I do if my Swamp white oak is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Swamp white oak? ›

How to save an overwatered Swamp white oak? ›

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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Swamp white oak?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Quercus bicolor prefers full sun, which enables it to develop well-rounded foliage and produce strong lumber. With adequate light, the tree thrives, enhancing both its aesthetic and functional attributes.

What are the ideal lighting conditions for Quercus bicolor? ›

What solutions exist to achieve ideal lighting? ›

What are the benefits of ideal lighting? ›

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Swamp white oak?

Ideal Temperature: 50 ~ 75℉

The ideal temperature range for growing Quercus bicolor is between 50°F and 75°F. This temperature allows for optimal growth and health. These conditions mimic its natural habitat and ensure that the tree can thrive, promoting robust foliage and root development.

What Soil is Best for Swamp white oak?

Soil type: Loam, Clay soil, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Quercus bicolor thrives in well-drained soil that prevents root rot and promotes healthy growth. Ensuring good drainage allows the roots to breathe and prevents the accumulation of excess water, which can be detrimental to the tree. The tree benefits greatly from soil rich in organic matter, which provides essential nutrients and improves soil structure. Organic matter enhances the soil's ability to retain moisture, supplying the tree with the hydration it needs during dry periods. While Quercus bicolor prefers well-drained soil, it also requires a certain level of moisture retention to sustain its growth. Adequate moisture helps maintain vigor and supports the tree during dry spells, ensuring robust development. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Swamp white oak?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Quercus bicolor, apply liquid fertilizer at the rate of one gallon per tree for young saplings and two gallons for mature trees. Use a balanced formula like 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 to ensure an adequate supply of essential nutrients. Be sure to dilute according to manufacturer's instructions to avoid over-application. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Swamp white oak?

Pruning Time: Spring, Winter

Start by removing dead or diseased branches since these can invite pests and diseases. Use clean, sharp pruning shears to make clean cuts. This will prevent the infection from spreading and improve the overall health of the tree. Focus on establishing a strong central leader by trimming competing stems. If the tree has multiple leaders, select the most robust one to dominate and remove the others. This establishes a strong structure as the tree matures. Selective thinning allows more light and air to penetrate the canopy, fostering better growth conditions. Aim to retain the natural form of the tree while removing overcrowded or crossing branches that mar its appearance. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Swamp white oak plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Late spring, Early spring

Collect acorns from mature Quercus bicolor trees during autumn. Make sure they are fully ripe. Clean the seeds and stratify them in moist sand for several months to simulate winter conditions before planting in spring.

Take semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer or early autumn. Each cutting should be about 6-10 inches long. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder before planting in a well-draining medium.

Choose a healthy rootstock and prepare a scion with at least two leaf nodes. Make an incision on both the scion and the rootstock, ensuring they are compatible. Secure them with grafting tape and keep them protected until the graft takes.

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How to Repot Swamp white oak plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Quercus bicolor, also known as the swamp white oak, should be repotted when you notice the roots begin emerging from the drainage holes or circling tightly around the pot. These signs indicate the oak needs more space to grow.

Select a pot that is one size larger than the current one, with ample drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. The right-sized pot promotes healthy root growth and prevents the plant from becoming root-bound.

Opt for a well-draining loamy soil that mimics the oak's natural habitat. This type of soil retains essential nutrients while allowing excess water to drain, providing the perfect balance for healthy plant growth.

Toxicity of Swamp white oak

Is Swamp white oak toxic to humans?

The swamp white oak possesses toxic characteristics that can be hazardous if ingested. The resulting symptoms are typically mild to moderate and are triggered by the tannins found in its young leaves and acorns. Symptoms may include stomach pain, constipation, bloody stools, diarrhea, increased urination, and intense thirst. Given that these trees are frequently used for ornamental purposes in parks and gardens, they are often readily accessible to people, particularly to more vulnerable populations such as children, who may collect and consume the young leaves and acorns unknowingly.

Is Swamp white oak toxic to cat?

Swamp white oak exhibits a low level of toxicity towards cats, which can result in harmful effects if significant amounts of the plant are consumed. In particular, the leaves and seeds of the swamp white oak are hazardous to felines. When these specific parts are ingested, cats may show signs of general physical unease or illness. It is essential to seek immediate veterinary care by bringing the cat to a veterinary clinic to avert any complications stemming from the consumption of swamp white oak. It is vital to keep cats away from the plant to protect their well-being.

Is Swamp white oak toxic to dog?

Swamp white oak contains a low level of toxicity that can pose a risk to dogs. If canine companions consume significant quantities of this plant, particularly the leaves and seeds, they may experience poisoning. Symptoms following the ingestion of swamp white oak might include gastrointestinal disturbances or respiratory issues. Therefore, it is essential for dog owners to keep a close eye on their pets and discourage them from eating excessive amounts of this plant. Should a dog consume swamp white oak and exhibit negative effects, seeking urgent veterinary attention is critical to ensure appropriate treatment and management of any potential poisoning.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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