Tree
Bur Oak
Quercus macrocarpa
Slow, massive, and drought-proof once established. A century tree for a xeriscape.
- Native
Quick facts
- Hardiness
- USDA zones 3–8
- Water
- Low once established
- Sun
- Full sun
- Size
- 50–80 ft tall × 50–80 ft wide
- Bloom & interest
- Massive rugged canopy; large fringed acorns; yellow-brown fall color
- Plant type
- Tree
- Native range
- Native across the Great Plains and Midwest, from Montana and Texas east to the Atlantic
Why we recommend it
One of the most drought-, wind- and cold-tolerant of all large shade oaks thanks to a deep taproot, making it a premier big xeric shade tree from Colorado to Texas.
Best regions: Front RangeGreat PlainsGreat BasinTexas
How to grow it
Watering to establish
Plant young (smaller trees establish faster) and deep-water every 1–2 weeks the first two summers, then monthly in drought.
Pruning
Prune in winter while dormant; establish a strong central leader early.
Soil
Adaptable to clay, alkaline and rocky soil. Give it room: 60–80 ft at maturity.
Pairs well with
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Where to buy
Shop Bur Oak from trusted growers. For the best selection of xeric plants, try a mail-order specialist or ask a local independent nursery.
- High Country Gardens (opens in a new tab)Xeric specialist
- Nature Hills Nursery (opens in a new tab)Wide selection
- American Meadows (opens in a new tab)Perennials & seeds
- Etsy (opens in a new tab)Small growers
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