Oak, Chinkapin

Quercus muehlenbergii

Height: 40-60ft
Spread: 50-70ft
Zone: 5-7
Exposure: Full sun
Growth Rate: Slow to moderate
Bloom Time/Color: N/A
Fall Color: N/A
Uses: Shade tree, park tree
Maintenance: Low
Tree Shape: Pyramidal, round
Other: Attracts wildlife

Chinkapin oak is noted in the landscape by its large presence and unique leaf shape for a member of the oak family. Its rounded canopy is covered in chestnut-like leaves (glossy, elliptical, bright green leaves with many pointed teeth) for the majority of the growing season before changing to browns and yellows. Small oval acorns adorn the tree in maturity and make good food for wildlife. Although chinkapin oaks do best in moist, well-drained soils in full sun, they are natively adapted to dry, rocky sites and tolerate drought rather well. A long-lived tree.

Quercus muelhenbergii is an Iowa native.