Quercus bicolor
Zone: 4
Size: 50-60’ H x 40-50’ W
A native to Minnesota, Swamp White Oak is a solid recommendation for the heavy, wet soils that dominate a large portion of the West Metro and outlying area. This tree develops a broad, pyramidal crown of shiny, densely-packed leaves. Like most oaks, it retains its foliage well into winter. The term for that is “marcescense”. Tan, ruffled foliage and shaggy, exfoliating bark contribute a ton of textural interest to the dormant landscape. The Swamp White Oak is well suited to our area and generally quite resistant to pest and disease issues. Because of its fairly high iron requirement, you may see some signs of chlorosis in high pH soils. That said, it’s a valuable tree for wildlife that tolerates some road salt and urban conditions.
