Willow Oak

This large native tree has a simple, small leaf, and a finer texture than most oak trees. It is considered a medium to large oak, can grow over 100 feet tall, and is native to the Southeastern portion of the United States, including Missouri.

Name	Willow Oak
Latin Name	Quercus phellos
Type	Native, Shade
Diameter	33″ dbh
Color of Leaf	Light green, pale yellow fall color
Shape of Leaf	Willow-like in shape
Color of Flower	Red
Shape of Flower	Male Flower—Hairy catkins 2″ to 3″ long. Female Flower—Catkins are shorter. Male & female flowers are born on the same tree.
Shape of Bark	Red-brown smooth on young trees, rough & shallowly fissured on mature trees

In Missouri, the Willow Oak is generally found in wetter areas bordering swamps. In the Oak family, this tree stands apart in that its leaves are unusual for an Oak. Instead of an Oak’s normally multi-lobed leaves, the Willow Oak has a simple, slender leaf. This tree has a rapid growth rate, growing up to 100 feet, with its acorns maturing within two years.