Genus: Quercus                   

Species: palustris

Zone: 4

Type:  Deciduous

Height: 40-55'

Shape: Pyramidal

Fall Color:  Rusty orange to red

Description:  The pin oak tree has a very distinctive growth habit.  The strong central leader and long, slender branches give this tree an elegant appearance.

More About the Pin Oak

Pin oaks are among the most popular shade trees and are often chosen for lawns, public spaces, golf courses and street plantings.  Their distinctive pyramidal shape and horizontal branching give landscapes a formal look.  Branches are long and slender, and the strong central leader is maintained at the top. 

Many people think pin oak got its name from this pyramidal growth habit, but the name actually dates back to the time when the hard, straight grained wood was cut into slender 'pins' or 'pegs'  that were used to fasten the framework of buildings. 

Pin oak leaves are glossy dark green above and lighter green beneath.  Lobes are deeply cut, giving the leaves a somewhat lacy appearance.  Fall color is somewhat variable, ranging from rusty orange to red.  In areas of mild temperatures, leaves will stay on the tree well into winter.

The pin oak adapts well to many growing conditions, though it is less drought tolerant than many of the other oaks.  Pin oak is quite tolerant of wet clay soils, which makes it a good choice for the Tulsa area.  They are very intolerant of high pH soils and develop chlorosis in alkaline soils. 

Pin oaks perform well in many urban settings as they are tolerant of city conditions.