Bur Oak-Quercus macrocarpa
The bur oak tree is tolerant of a variety of moisture and soil conditions and adapts well to urban settings. It is a very long-lived tree that grows 70 to 80 feet tall with an 80-foot branch spread. Its fringed acorns are enjoyed as food by wildlife. The bur oak is a low water-use tree, but can negatively impact air quality and is slow to sequester carbon. Plant a bur oak in full sun in zones 3 to 8. Large, broad-leafed shade trees such as the bur oak can decrease energy use when planted to shade the east and west windows of a home or business. Click here for more information.
Paul Wray, Iowa State University, Bugwood.org
Richard Webb, Self-employed horticulturist, Bugwoo
