BUR OAK
Bur Oak (Quercus macrocarpa) is an outstanding tree to have in your landscape, if you have the room. They are one of the few native oaks in Nebraska. Yes, I know it’s surprising, but we can grow trees in Nebraska! Believe it or not, we even have our own forest! Back to the Bur Oak…They have thick bark that has helped them resist fire damage and have nicely shaped, lobed leaves that turn yellow/brown in the fall. They tend to have a deeper root system for good drought tolerance. They grow well in the alkaline soils here in Nebraska. Bur Oaks prefer full sun and have some of the largest acorns, which wildlife such as squirrels and birds enjoy. They will typically grow around 75′ tall and wide. Some say it is slow-growing, but it tends to be faster growing when younger, with 1 foot per year of growth on average depending on site conditions.
Notable Characteristics
Thick, corky bark
Can be very long-lived – 300 years or more
Drought tolerant
How To Use In The Landscape
Bur Oak makes a great shade tree and likes plenty of room to grow. Use it to help with cooling costs and to provide relief from the summer heat. It is also a great tree to support wildlife in your area.
Sources:
https://www.gardenguides.com/info_8340382_bur-oak-tree.html
https://www.arborday.org/trees/treeguide/treedetail.cfm?itemID=874
https://nfs.unl.edu/woody-plants/bur-oak
https://www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/bur-oak
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