There are around 90 different species of native Oak tree species that grow in North America, and you can use an oak tree leaf identification chart to spot them.15
Mature oak trees can reach heights of around 148 feet and can live up to 1,000 years. Oak trees have existed for 65 million years, and a single oak tree can produce around 10 million acorns during its lifespan. Out of these acorns, only 1 in 10,000 grow into an oak tree.
Around the world, more than 600 species of oak trees grow, including over 100 species in China and 160 species in Mexico.
Oak trees are strong and were a preferred material in the construction of ships in Viking times. In modern times, oak tree wood is popularly used in the manufacturing of high-end furniture and veneers.
It has been estimated that around 31% of global oak tree species are threatened with extinction due to climate change, disease, pests, deforestation, and urbanization.1
Type of Oak Trees Leaves
When identifying an Oak tree, the leaves offer clear indicators of the species. The following list outlines some of the most common varieties.
#1 Black Oak Tree Leaves
Black oak trees are deciduous and usually identified by their bark and leaves. The Black oak tree leaf is green with lobes and bristly tips. These trees are found in the US along the East Coast and eastern midwestern states.
(Image: Katja Schulz28)
#3 Pin Oak Leaves
Pin oak trees are fast-growing shade trees that grow in an almost pyramidal shape. Pin oak leaves are large and turn shades of red and bronze before dropping in the winter season.
Pin Oak Leaf Disease
Pin oak leaf disease attacks the tree in the form of chlorosis which happens when the soil pH is incorrect.26 When the leaf veins turn yellow or brown, the overall health of the pin oak suffers. It is possible to reverse the disease by correcting the pH of the soil or injecting iron directly into the trunk.
Pin Oak Fruit
Pin oak fruit start as a small group of cells growing at the tip of a branch.27 Pin oaks are hermaphrodites which grow male and female flowers.
The group of cells creates a small knob at the end of the twigs during the spring which is then fertilized by pollen. The ovary walls of the knob eventually grow into an acorn after fertilization.
#4 Water Oak Leaves
Water oaks grow conically and eventually sport a round crown when they mature.
Water oak leaves are classically shaped with three lobes at the ends.
#5 Willow Oak Leaves
The willow oak tree is usually identified by its bark, acorns, and leaves. The willow oak leaf is thick and smooth with tapered ends that turn shades of brown and yellow during the fall season.28
#6 Bur Oak Leaves
Bur oak trees, also known as mossycup oak or blue oak have the largest acorns of any oak tree species that grows in North America. Bur oak leaves are variable in shape, with a lobed margin and large teeth. During the fall, the leaves often turn a deep shade of gold.13
#7 Swamp White Oak Leaves
The peeling bark of the swamp white oak tree and the two-tone shades of the swamp white oak leaf is the most identifiable parts of these trees. The lobed leaves are dark green on the upper side and almost white on the underside, turning various shades of orange to yellow during the middle of the fall season.
(Image: Couleur31)
#8 Scarlet Oak Leaves
Scarlet oak trees reach up to 80 feet in height and often have dead branches that stretch up to the open crown.29
Scarlet oak leaves are elliptical to oval and divided deeply to almost half of the mid-vein.
#9 Blackjack Oak Leaves
One of the smaller types of oaks found in the eastern and central US, the blackjack oak is easily identifiable by its cracked bark with orange fissures, while the blackjack oak leaves are unique as well, sporting a three-lobed bell shape and turning red and brown during the fall.
(Image: Mason Brock34)
(Image: Benjamin Bruce32)
#10 Post Oak Leaves
Post oak trees can grow up to 50 feet and are one of the most widespread oak tree species in the state of Texas.30 Post oak leaves are cross-shaped with broad-ended lobes and a dark green surface.
#11 Chestnut Oak Leaves
The bark of the chestnut oak tree is the thickest out of any oak tree species and was once used for tanning animal skins. Chestnut oak leaves are shaped like a chestnut and go from dark yellow-green in summer to orange and brown in the fall.
(Image: Daderot35)
#12 Japanese Evergreen Oak Leaves
The Japanese evergreen oak tree is native to Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan. It doesn’t resemble the traditional oak tree and doesn’t grow as tall either. Japanese evergreen oak leaves are dark and narrow with rounded tips.
#13 Oregon White Oak Leaves
Light gray bark with thick furrows and ridges and typical acorns are some of the most recognizable parts of the Oregon white oak tree. Oregon white oak leaves are deeply lobed and round at the tips.
(Image: MyName (Jamidwyer)36)
Oak Tree Leaf Identification Chart
The below oak tree leaf identification chart indicates the comparison and identification of oak tree leaves between the different species of oak trees:
| Type of Oak Trees | How To Identify Oak Tree Leaves14 |
| Black Oak Tree Species33 | 5-7 bristle-tipped lobes, either deep or shallow. Leaves are 5-10 inches long, 3-8 inches wide and are dark green on top and pale at the bottom. |
| Live Oak Tree Species | Simple, solid, narrow leaves in an elliptical shape. 2-5 inches long, 2 inches wide. Upper side of the leaf is dark green and the bottom side is gray-green. These leaves usually have a leathery texture. |
| Pin Oak Tree Species | 5-7 deeply lobed leaves, and U-shaped sinuses. 3-6 inches long. |
| Water Oak Tree Species | Leaves can vary widely as some are rounded and simple while others are three-lobed and end in bristles. 4 inches long, 2 inches wide. |
| Willow Oak Tree Species | 2-4 inches long, 1 inch wide. These leaves are untoothed and unlobed and have a bright green upper side and pale green bottom side. |
| Bur Oak Tree Species | Up to 6 inches in length and 2-5 inches wide, with lobed margins. The two-thirds basal is usually deeply lobed and the apical third is wide with large teeth. |
| Swamp White Oak Tree Species | Ovoid broad in shape, up to 7 inches long and 4 inches wide. The leaves are lobed with either five or seven lobes. |
| Scarlet Oak Species | Just over 6 inches in length and 5 inches wide with deep sinuses. Each lobe contains up to 7 teeth ending in bristles. These leaves are usually hairless. |
| Blackjack Oak Tree Species | 8 inches long and wide with a flare from the base ending in a three-lobed bell shape. Dark green, glossy leaves. |
| Post Oak Tree Species | Leaves are oddly shaped with three terminal lobes and hair underneath. 4-7 inches long and 3-4 inches wide. |
| Chestnut Oak Tree Species | Just over 7 inches long and 4 inches wide, the leaves are broad with shallow lobes totaling 10-15 on each margin. Dark yellow-green leaves. |
| Japanese Evergreen Oak Tree Species | 2.5 – 5 inches in length with wavy margins and a pale-colored bottom side. |
| Oregon White Oak Tree Species | 2-6 inches long and 1-3 inches broad with deep lobes totaling up to 7. Dark green on top and paler at the bottom with fine hairs. |
Types of Oak Trees
Both red oak and white oak trees are found in the US. Some types of oak trees that grow here are evergreen while others are deciduous.
All oak trees fall under the beech tree family, but oak trees do not resemble beech trees.
The red oak tree group includes the following oak trees:
- Northern Red Oak Tree
Northern Red Oak trees grow around two feet per year and can grow in any environment, provided there is enough room.
- Southern Red Oak Tree
Red Oak trees are named after the fall colors and the color of the wood they provide. Southern Red Oak trees are also known as three-lobed red oaks and are native to the southeastern US.
- Willow Oak Tree
A Willow Oak tree doesn’t resemble a typical oak species and grows faster than many varieties of oak.
- Southern Live Oak Tree
The southern region of the US is the native habitat of Southern Live Oak. All parts of this tree can be used to make oil, medicine, and dye.
(Image: JamesDeMers30)
- Black Oak Tree
This type of oak tree is typically found in the eastern regions of the US and its acorns are known to support several species of wildlife.
- Pin Oak Tree
Pin oak trees lose their triangular shape over time and become rounded as it matures.
The white oak tree group includes the following oak trees:
English oaks are a lesser-known species in the US, as they mainly form part of forests and other landscapes in the UK.16
- Cornish Oak Tree
The Cornish oak tree is native to most of Europe and is also the national tree of Ireland.
- Swamp White Oak Tree
Swamp White Oak trees are deciduous trees native to the northeastern US. They are especially recognizable during the fall when their leaves turn yellow, bronze and reddish-purple.
- Oregon White Oak Tree
Oregon White Oak trees are also commonly referred to as Garry oaks. These trees are deciduous and typically found in the Pacific Northwest.
- Valley Oak Tree
Valley Oak trees are endemic to California and one of the largest US oak species.2
Species of Oak Trees Native to North America
The below table indicates the species of oak trees native to North America:
| Oak Tree Species (Scientific Name) | Oak Tree Species (Common Name)3 |
| Quercus oblongifolia | Arizona blue oak tree |
| Quercus arizonica | Arizona white oak tree |
| Quercus arkansana | Arkansas oak tree |
| Quercus durandii | Bastard oak tree |
| Quercus ilicifolia | Bear oak tree |
| Quercus velutina | Black oak tree |
| Quercus marilandica | Blackjack oak tree |
| Quercus douglasii | Blue oak tree |
| Quercus incana | Bluejack oak tree |
| Quercus macrocarpa | Burr oak tree |
| Quercus kelloggii | California black oak tree |
| Quercus chrysolepis | Canyon live oak tree |
| Quercus chapmanii | Chapman oak tree |
| Quercus prinus | Chestnut oak tree |
| Quercus muehlenbergii | Chinkapin oak tree |
| Quercus graciliformis | Chisos oak tree |
| Quercus gravesii | Chisos red oak tree |
| Quercus emoryi | Emory oak tree |
| Quercus engelmannii | Engelmann oak tree |
Quercus ilicifolia (Image: Alan Levine37)
| Oak Tree Species (Scientific Name) | Oak Tree Species (Common Name) |
| Quercus gambelii | Gambel oak tree |
| Quercus georgiana | Georgia oak tree |
| Quercus grisea | Gray oak tree |
| Quercus wislizeni | Interior live oak tree |
| Quercus tomentella | Island oak tree |
| Quercus glaucoides | Lacey oak tree |
| Quercus laurifolia | Laurel oak tree |
| Quercus macdonaldii | MacDonald’s oak tree |
| Quercus mohriana | Mohr oak tree |
| Quercus myrtifolia | Myrtle oak tree |
| Quercus rugosa | Netleaf oak tree |
| Quercus ellipsoidalis | Northern pin oak tree |
| Quercus rubra | Northern red oak tree |
| Quercus nuttallii | Nuttall oak tree |
| Quercus oglethorpensis | Oglethorpe oak tree |
| Quercus garryana | Oregon white oak tree |
| Quercus lyrate | Overcup oak tree |
| Quercus dunnii | Palmer oak tree |
| Quercus palustris | Pin oak tree |
Quercus gambelii (Image: Denver Botanic Gardens38)
| Oak Tree Species (Scientific Name) | Oak Tree Species (Common Name) |
| Quercus stellata | Post oak tree |
| Quercus pungens | Sandpaper oak tree |
| Quercus coccinea | Scarlet oak tree |
| Quercus imbricaria | Shingle oak tree |
| Quercus havardii | Shinnery oak tree |
| Quercus turbinella | Shrub oak tree |
| Quercus shumardii | Shumard oak tree |
| Quercus hypoleucoides | Silverleaf oak tree |
| Quercus virginiana | Southern live oak tree |
| Quercus falcata | Southern red oak tree |
| Quercus michauxii | Swamp chestnut oak tree |
| Quercus bicolor | Swamp white oak tree |
| Quercus toumeyi | Toumey oak tree |
| Quercus laevis | Turkey oak tree |
| Quercus lobata | Valley oak tree |
| Quercus nigra | Water oak tree |
| Quercus alba | White oak tree |
| Quercus phellos | Willow oak tree |
Quercus lobata (Image: KP Botany~commonswiki39)
Oak Trees in All 50 States
The below table indicates the different varieties of oak trees in all 50 states in the US:
| Oak Trees in All 50 States | Varieties7 |
| Types of Oak Trees in Alabama | There are more than 90 species of oak trees that are native to Alabama, with even more varieties that can grow in the state. Some of the most common oak trees in Alabama include: Blackjack Oak Tree Bluejack Oak Tree Darlington Oak Tree Delta Post Oak Tree Northern Red Oak Tree Post Oak Tree4 Sand Live Oak Tree Shumard Oak Tree Southern Live Oak Tree Southern Red Oak Tree Swamp Chestnut Oak Tree Swamp Post Oak Tree Turkey Oak Tree Water Oak Tree White Oak Tree |
| Types of Oak Trees in Alaska17 | There are no native oak trees in Alaska due to the frigid climate. Other trees grow well in this state including deciduous trees and evergreen trees. |
| Types of Oak Trees in Arizona | There are 9 common types of oak trees that grow in Arizona, namely: Arizona White Oak Tree Canyon Live Oak Leaf Tree Dunn Oak Tree Emory Oak Tree Gambel Oak Tree Net-Leaf Oak Tree Shrub Live Oak Tree Silver Leaf Oak Tree Wavyleaf Oak Tree |
| Types of Oak Trees in Arkansas | Oak trees are among the most common trees found in the state of Arkansas. They include the following types: Black Oak Tree Blackjack Oak Tree Cherrybark Oak Tree Chinkapin Oak Tree Mapleleaf Oak Tree Northern Red Oak Tree Nuttall Oak Tree Over Cup Oak Tree Pin Oak Tree Post Oak Tree Southern Red Oak Tree Swamp Chestnut Oak Tree Water Oak Tree White Oak Tree Willow Oak Tree |
| Types of Oak Trees in California | There are several native species of oak trees to be found in California, which include both tree and shrub species: Black Oak Tree Blue Oak Tree Canyon Live Oak Tree Coast Live Oak Tree Mesa Oak Tree Interior Live Oak Tree Island Oak Tree Oregon Oak Tree Shreve’s Oak Tree Valley Oak Tree |
| Types of Oak Trees in Colorado | Oak trees also grow in Colorado, but the only native oak to this state is the Gambel Oak which grows well in the Rocky Mountains. Oak trees that can be cultivated in Colorado include: Bur Oak Tree Chinkapin Oak Tree English Oak Tree Shumard Oak Tree Swamp White Oak Tree Texas Red Oak Tree Wayleaf Oak Tree White Oak Tree |
| Types of Oak Trees in Connecticut | There are 7 common types of oak trees that thrive throughout Connecticut, namely: Bur Oak Tree Chestnut Oak Tree Eastern Black Oak Tree Eastern White Oak Tree Northern Red Oak Tree Scarlet Oak Leaf Tree Swamp White Oak Tree |
| Types of Oak Trees in Delaware18 | Native indigenous oak trees in Delaware include: Black Oak Tree Blackjack Oak Tree Cherry Bark Oak Tree Chestnut Oak Tree Northern Red Oak Tree Over Cup Oak Tree Pin Oak Tree Post Oak Tree Scarlet Oak Tree Southern Red Oak Tree Swamp Chestnut Oak Tree Swamp White Oak Tree Water Oak Tree White Oak Tree Willow Oak Tree Yellow Oak Tree |
| Types of Oak Trees in Florida | There are 16 different types of oak trees that can grow in Florida. These are as follows: Blue Japanese Oak Tree Bluejack Oak Tree Bluff Oak Tree Bur Oak Tree Chinkapin Oak Tree Darlington Oak Tree Laurel Oak Tree Overcup Oak Tree Post Oak Tree Shumard Oak Tree Southern Live Oak Tree Southern Red Oak Tree Swamp White Oak Tree Water Oak Tree White Oak Tree Willow Oak Tree |
| Types of Oak Trees in Georgia | The state of Georgia is home to many species of trees including oak. The following oak species are most commonly found throughout the state: Black Oak Tree Blackjack Oak Tree Cherrybark Oak Tree Chestnut Oak Tree Chinkapin Oak Tree Darlington Oak Tree Live Oak Tree Nuttall Oak Tree Overcup Oak Tree Pin Oak Tree Post Oak Tree Scarlet Oak Tree Shumard Oak Tree Southern Red Oak Tree Swamp Laurel Oak Tree Water Oak Tree Willow Oak Tree |
| Oak Trees in All 50 States | Varieties |
| Types of Oak Trees In Hawaii | Oak trees are not native to Hawaii, because the state is biologically isolated. Other types of trees thrive here, including Silk Oak or Silver Oak. |
| Types of Oak Trees in Idaho | Oak trees are not native to Idaho, because of its dry and cold climate. However, other trees do well in this state, especially conifers such as ponderosa pine and Douglas-fir.19 |
| Types of Oak Trees in Illinois | There are at least 19 different types of oak trees to be found in the state of Illinois: Black Oak Tree Blackjack Oak Tree Bur Oak Tree Cherrybark Oak Tree Chinkapin Oak Tree Dwarf Chinkapin Oak Tree Hartwiss Oak Tree Hill’s Oak Tree Northern Red Oak Tree Nuttall Oak Tree Overcup Oak Tree Post Oak Tree Rock Chestnut Oak Tree Scarlet Oak Tree Shingle Oak Tree Southern Red Oak Tree Swamp White Oak Tree White Oak Tree Willow Oak Tree |
| Types of Oak Trees in Indiana | Native oak trees in Indiana include the following: Black Oak Tree Blackjack Oak Tree Bur Oak Tree Cherrybark Oak Tree Chestnut Oak Tree Chinkapin Oak Tree Dwarf Chinkapin Oak Tree Northern Pin Oak Tree Overcup Oak Tree Pin Oak Tree Post Oak Tree Red Oak Tree Scarlet Oak Tree Shingle Oak Tree Shumard Oak Tree Swamp Chestnut Oak Tree Swamp White Oak Tree White Oak Tree |
| Types of Oak Trees in Iowa | The only species of oak tree that grows throughout Iowa is the Bur Oak tree. Other species of oak trees grow in different parts of Iowa: Black Oak Tree (throughout Iowa) Blackjack Oak Tree (southeast parts of Iowa) Chinkapin Oak Tree (southeast parts of Iowa) Dwarf Chinkapin Oak Tree (eastern regions of Iowa) Northern Pin Oak Tree (north-central and northeast regions of Iowa) Pin Oak Tree (native to southeastern parts of Iowa) Post Oak Tree (several counties in Iowa) Red Oak Tree (native with the exception of far northwest counties and regions) Shingle Oak Tree (southern parts of Iowa) Swamp White Oak Tree (Along streams in different regions of Iowa White Oak Tree (Most regions of eastern Iowa) |
| Types of Oak Trees in Kansas | Kansas is home to at least 5 different types of oak trees: Bur Oak Tree English Oak Tree Shingle Oak Tree Shumard Oak Tree White Oak Tree |
| Types of Oak Trees in Kentucky | There are 8 common types of oak trees that grow in Kentucky: Bur Oak Tree Chestnut Oak Tree Chinkapin Oak Tree Northern Red Oak Tree Pin Oak Tree Scarlet Oak Tree Shingle Oak Tree Willow Oak Tree |
| Types of Oak Trees in Louisiana | In Louisiana, at least 8 types of oaks trees can be found: Black Oak Tree Blackjack Oak Tree Chestnut Oak Tree Laurel Oak Tree Nuttall Oak Tree Red Oak Tree Shumard Oak Tree Water Oak Tree |
| Types of Oak Trees in Maine | Eight different types of oak trees thrive in the state of Maine. These include the following: Bear Oak Tree Black Oak Tree Bur Oak Tree Chestnut Oak Tree Northern Red Oak Tree Scarlet Oak Tree5 Swamp White Oak Tree White Oak Tree |
| Types of Oak Trees in Maryland | The White Oak is the official tree of Maryland, and this tree is also native to the state. Other native varieties include: Black Oak Tree Pin Oak Tree Red Oak Tree Scarlet Oak Tree Other species of oak trees that grow in Maryland include: Bur Oak Tree Chinkapin Oak Tree Post Oak Tree Swamp White Oak Tree |
| Oak Trees in All 50 States | Varieties |
| Types of Oak Trees in Massachusetts | Several different types of oak trees can be found in Massachusetts, including: Bear Oak Tree Pin Oak Tree Shingle Oak Tree Swamp White Oak Tree White Oak Tree |
| Types of Oak Trees in Michigan | Six common types of oak trees grow throughout Michigan: Black Oak Tree Bur Oak Tree Northern Red Oak Tree Pin Oak Tree Swamp White Oak Tree White Oak Tree |
| Types of Oak Trees in Minnesota | Minnesota is home to several native oak tree species including: Black Oak Tree Bur Oak Tree Chinkapin Oak Tree Northern Pin Oak Tree Red Oak Tree Swamp White Oak Tree White Oak Tree6 |
| Types of Oak Trees in Mississippi | Because of the hot summers in Mississippi, several oak tree species thrive in direct sunlight throughout the state. The most common oak species include: Black Oak Tree Blackjack Oak Tree Bluejack Oak Tree Bluff Oak Tree Cherrybark Oak Tree Chinkapin Oak Tree Durand Oak Tree Dwarf Live Oak Tree Laurel Oak Tree Overcup Oak Tree Post Oak Tree Sand Live Oak Tree Sand Post Oak Tree Scarlet Oak Tree Shumard Oak Tree Southern Red Oak Tree Swamp Chestnut Oak Tree Swamp White Oak Tree Turkey Oak Tree Water Oak Tree White Oak Tree |
| Types of Oak Trees in Missouri | Oak trees are among the most commonly found in Missouri. Types of oak trees found here include: Black Oak Tree Blackjack Oak Tree Cherrybark Oak Tree Pin Oak Tree Post Oak Tree Scarlet Oak Tree Shumard Oak Tree White Oak Tree Willow Oak Tree |
| Types of Oak Trees in Montana | The only native oak tree found in Montana is the Bur Oak tree which is restricted to the extreme southeastern corner of the state. |
| Types of Oak Trees in Nebraska | Some of the most commonly found oak trees in the state of Nebraska include the following: Blackjack Oak Tree Bur Oak Tree Chinkapin Oak Tree Dwarf Chinkapin Oak Tree Northern Pin Oak Tree Red Oak Tree Shingle Oak Tree White Oak Tree |
| Types of Oak Trees in Nevada | Even though Nevada is a desert state, more than half a dozen oak tree species thrive in its southern regions. These include the following: Blue Oak Tree Bur Oak Tree California White Oak Tree Canyon Live Oak Tree Chinquapin Oak Tree Escarpment Oak Tree Heritage TM Oak Tree Holly Oak Tree Inland Scrub Oak Tree Interior Live Oak Tree Oregon Oak Tree Southern Live Oak Tree Texas Red Oak Tree Valley Oak Tree Venerable Cork Oak Tree |
| Types of Oak Trees in New Hampshire | New Hampshire is the location of at least seven different types of oak trees: Black Oak Tree Bur Oak Tree Northern Red Oak Tree Rock Chestnut Oak Tree Scarlet Oak Tree Swamp White Oak Tree White Oak Tree |
| Types of Oak Trees in New Jersey | New Jersey is flanked by the Atlantic Ocean and the Delaware river, giving it a unique landscape that includes 9 types of oak trees: Bear Oak Tree Black Oak Tree Chestnut Oak Tree Dwarf Chinkapin Oak Tree Northern Red Oak Tree Pin Oak Tree Scarlet Oak Tree Swamp White Oak Tree White Oak Tree |
| Oak Trees in All 50 States | Varieties |
| Types of Oak Trees in New Mexico | Oak trees that grow throughout New Mexico include: Bur Oak Tree Chinkapin Oak Tree Gambel Oak Tree Gray Oak Tree Shrub Live Oak Tree |
| Types of Oak Trees in New York | Commonly found oak trees in New York include: Black Oak Tree Pin Oak Tree Red Oak Tree Scarlet Oak Tree Other varieties that also thrive in this state include: Chestnut Oak Tree Eastern White Oak Tree English Oak Tree Laurel Oak Tree Northern Red Oak Tree Post Oak Tree Swamp White Oak Tree Turkey Oak Tree Willow Oak Tree |
| Types of Oak Trees in North Carolina | North Carolina is well known for its abundant oak trees. 15 of the most common types of oak trees found in this state include the following: Bluejack Oak Tree Chestnut Oak Tree Chinkapin Oak Tree Laurel Oak Tree Live Oak Tree Myrtle Oak Tree Overcup Oak Tree Pin Oak Tree Post Oak Tree Scarlet Oak Tree Southern Red Oak Tree Swamp Red Oak Tree Water Oak Tree White Oak Tree Willow Oak Tree |
| Types of Oak Trees in North Dakota20 | The two types of oak trees found in North Dakota are: Bur Oak Tree Mongolian Oak Tree |
| Types of Oak Trees in Ohio21 | The White Oak tree is found throughout the state of Ohio. Other types of oak trees that grow here include: Black Oak Tree Bur Oak Tree Chestnut Oak Tree Chinkapin Oak Tree English Oak Tree Pin Oak Tree Swamp White Oak Tree |
| Types of Oak Trees in Oklahoma | The Shumard Red Oak tree is one of the best-growing oak trees in Oklahoma. Other varieties of oak trees that grow here include: Blackjack Oak Tree Bur Oak Tree Chinkapin Oak Tree Northern Red Oak Tree Pin Oak Tree Post Oak Tree Sawtooth Oak Tree Southern Red Oak Tree White Oak Tree |
| Types of Oak Trees in Oregon | The White Oak is the only native oak tree that grows throughout the state of Oregon. |
| Types of Oak Trees in Pennsylvania | Commonly found oak trees in Pennsylvania include: Black Oak Tree Northern Red Oak Tree White Oak Tree |
| Types of Oak Trees in Rhode Island | Rhode Island is home to native and hybrid oak tree species: Black Oak Hybrid Black Oak Tree Burr Oak Tree Dwarf Chestnut Oak Tree Eastern White Oak Tree English Oak Tree Mountain Chestnut Oak Tree Mountain Chestnut Oak Hybrid Tree Northern Red Oak Tree Pin Oak Tree Post Oak Hybrid Tree Scarlet Oak Tree Scrub Oak Hybrid Tree Scrub Oak Tree Swamp White Oak Tree Swamp White Oak Hybrid Tree |
| Types of Oak Trees in South Carolina | Oak trees are abundant in South Carolina. The most common types include: Black Oak Tree Blackjack Oak Tree Chestnut Oak Tree Laurel Oak Tree Live Oak Tree Northern Red Oak Tree Overcup Oak Tree Post Oak Tree Southern Red Oak Tree Turkey Oak Tree Water Oak Tree White Oak Tree Willow Oak Tree |
| Oak Trees in All 50 States | Varieties |
| Types of Oak Trees in South Dakota | South Dakota boasts 2 types of oak trees that thrive in the state’s fertile soil: Bur Oak Tree Mongolian Oak Tree |
| Types of Oak Trees in Tennessee | Oak trees grow very well in the state of Tennessee because of the mild climate. There are at least 19 different oak trees to be found here: Black Oak Tree Blackjack Oak Tree Bur Oak Tree Cherrybark Oak Tree Chestnut Oak Tree Chinkapin Oak Tree Northern Red Oak Tree Nuttall Oak Tree Overcup Oak Tree Pin Oak Tree Post Oak Tree Scarlet Oak Tree Shingle Oak Tree Shumard Oak Tree Southern Red Oak Tree Swamp White Oak Tree Water Oak Tree White Oak Tree Willow Oak Tree |
| Types of Oak Trees in Texas | The Lone Star State is known for its warm climate which is conducive to the growing of 5 different types of oak trees: Bur Oak Tree Live Oak Tree Nuttall Oak Tree Post Oak Tree Shumard Oak Tree |
| Types of Oak Trees in Utah | There are three different types of oak trees that grow in the state of Utah: Gambel Oak Tree Shrub Live Oak Tree Wavyleaf Oak Tree |
| Types of Oak Trees in Vermont | Vermont is known for its high numbers of beech, birch, and maple trees. The state is also home to four types of oak trees: Chinkapin Oak Tree Dwarf Chinkapin Oak Tree Pin Oak Tree Scarlet Oak Tree |
| Types of Oak Trees in Virginia | There are many different types of trees in Virginia including 7 species of oak trees: Blackjack Oak Tree Chestnut Oak Tree Live Oak Tree Post Oak Tree Water Oak Tree White Oak Tree Willow Oak Tree |
| Types of Oak Trees in Washington22 | The only native oak tree that grows in Washington is the Oregon White Oak. |
| Types of Oak Trees in West Virginia23 | The most common oak tree species found in West Virginia include the following: Black Oak Tree Chestnut Oak Tree Northern Red Oak Tree Scarlet Oak Tree White Oak Tree |
| Types of Oak Trees in Wisconsin | Wisconsin is home to 8 different types of oak trees: Black Oak Tree Bur Oak Tree Chinkapin Oak Tree Hybrid Swamp White Oak Tree Northern Pin Oak Tree Red Oak Tree Swamp White Oak Tree White Oak Tree |
| Types of Oak Trees in Wyoming | The only native oak species in Wyoming is the Bur Oak. |
Oak Tree Hardiness Zones
Oak tree hardiness zones stretch from zones 3 through 10 as indicated by the below table:
| Oak Tree Species | Hardiness Zone8 |
| Black Oak Tree | Black Oak Hardiness Zone: 3-9 |
| Bur Oak Tree | Bur Oak Hardiness Zone: 3-8 |
| Chestnut Oak Tree | Chestnut Oak Hardiness Zone: 4-8 |
| Dwarf Chestnut Oak Tree | Dwarf Chestnut Oak Hardiness Zone: 4-8 |
| English Oak Tree | English Oak Hardiness Zone: 5-8 |
| Gambel Oak Tree | Gambel Oak Hardiness Zone: 4-7 |
| Holm Oak Tree | Holm Oak Hardiness Zone: 7-10 |
| Laurel Oak Tree | Laurel Oak Hardiness Zone: 7-9 |
| Live Oak Tree | Live Oak Hardiness Zone: 8-10 |
| Pin Oak Tree | Pin Oak Hardiness Zone: 3-9 |
| Post Oak Tree | Post Oak Hardiness Zone: 5-9 |
| Red Oak Tree | Red Oak Hardiness Zone: 4-8 |
| Scarlet Oak Tree | Scarlet Oak Hardiness Zone: 4-9 |
| Spanish Oak Tree | Spanish Oak Hardiness Zone: 6-9 |
| Swamp White Oak Tree | Swamp White Oak Hardiness Zone: 3-8 |
| Water Oak Tree | Water Oak Hardiness Zone: 6-9 |
| White Oak Tree | White Oak Hardiness Zone: 3-9 |
| Willow Oak Tree | Willow Oak Hardiness Zone: 5-9 |
Oak Tree Identification
Oak tree identification usually centers around comparing the bark of the tree between the different species.
(Image: Stefan Schweihofer40)
Oak tree bark colors range from light whitish gray to almost black. Oak tree bark is usually deeply fissured and has instantly recognizable ridges.
Read More About: Willow Tree Guide: All 19 Species & How Its Bark Changed Science
Another oak tree identification method is the comparison of acorns and flowers.
Oak trees are also easily identified by their lobed leaves that have either pointed or rounded tips.
Types of Oak Trees by Leaf
It is easy to identify types of oak trees by leaf comparison. The below table provides an example of oak tree leaf comparison:
| Type of Oak Tree | Leaf Identification |
| Laurel Oak Tree (Evergreen & Deciduous) | Dark green, elongated leaves with smooth margins. |
| Dwarf Chestnut Oak Tree (Deciduous) | Simple, alternate, with wavy margin and wide teeth. Bright green on upper side, pale green on lower side turning a shade of red during the fall. |
| Bur Oak Tree (Deciduous) | Ovate with broad middle and large lobes. Dark green on top and gray-green at the bottom turning a rusty brown in the fall. |
| Spanish Oak Tree (Deciduous) | Fewer lobes, long terminal lob, and rounded base. |
| Holm Oak Tree (Evergreen) | Oval, with a shiny surface and a whitish color underneath. |
Different Oak Leaves
Different oak leaves come in various shapes, which determine the species of oak. These shapes include leaves that around rounded at the bottom of the sinus and top of the lobe and have no spines which are characteristic of white oak trees.
(Image: Kati41)
Post oak trees and White Oak trees have leaves that are rounded at the tips, like in the picture above. Leaves that are angular or rounded at the base of the sinus and angular at the top of the lobe and contain small spines are characteristic of red oak trees.9
Types of Red Oak Trees
There are several different types of red oak trees in addition to the two main types namely the Northern Red Oak and the Southern Red Oak. These include:
- Black Oak Tree
- Pin Oak Tree
- Southern Live Oak Tree
- Willow Oak Tree
Red Oak Tree Leaves
Red oak tree leaves are alternately arranged on the twig, 7 to 11 lobed and up to 9 inches long.
(Image: Ann G33)
Their petioles reach a length of up to 2 inches and the lobe sinuses are u-shaped with the tips ending in bristles.
Southern Red Oak Tree Leaves
Southern red oak tree leaves are deciduous, thin, and lobed with bristles at the tip.24 These leaves turn a shade of red-brown in the fall.
Red Oak Leaf Identification
Red oak leaf identification is easily done by distinguishing between the different types of leaves of red oak trees, in the same fashion as the above red oak and southern red oak tree leaves.
- Willow Oak leaves – Willow-like leaves that are bright green in summer and yellow-brown in the fall.
- Southern Live Oak leaves – Stiff, thick leaves that are dark green on top and pale gray at the bottom.
- Black Oak leaves – Dark green on top, dull green at the bottom, turning orange in the fall.
- Pin Oak leaves – Oval, deep green and 5–7-inch torn leaves, turning scarlet in the fall.10
Northern Red Oak Tree Identification
Northern red oak trees are large trees with straight trunks. For an accurate red oak tree identification process, it is necessary to identify the large, spreading branches and round crowns.
Northern Red Oak Tree Leaves
Northern red oak tree leaves are simple, alternate 5-9 inches long with bristle-tipped lobes that stretch to the midrib of each leaf.25 The leaf lobes are uneven, with those along the top half of the leaf mostly broad and short.
(Image: Hans42)
These types of leaves are yellow-green on top with hairy parts punctuating the vein intersection.
Oak Tree Leaf Identification Chart
The below extensive oak tree leaf identification chart indicates the different leaves of the red oak tree species that need to be examined when distinguishing between the Northern Red Oak and the Southern Red Oak:
| Red Oak Species | Oak Tree Leaf Identification11 |
| Northern Red Oak Tree | Leaves are elliptical in shape and perch on top of a slender stalk which is divided into 7 to 11 wavy lobes. These lobes cleft either 1/3 or 1/3 of the way to the mid-vein. Bristles end at the tips of the leaves and become rounded in the sinus. The upper side of the leaves is a dull green, with the bottom side a lighter green containing hair along the mid-vein. |
| Southern Red Oak Tree | Leaves are thin, papery by nature, and contain lobes. The leaves end in bristles and turn a reddish brown in the fall. The twigs contain star-shaped piths, and the leaf petiole is ¾ – 2 3/8 inches in length. A wide U-shaped base and a margin of 3 – 7 divided lobes further distinguish the Southern Red Oak leaves from the Northern Red Oak leaves. The top of the leaves is a dark, shiny green while the bottom is gray with secondary veins rising on both ends. |
Read More About: Cottonwood Tree Leaf: How to Spot a Cottonwood (All 4 Types) & Eat Them
Types of White Oak Trees
The different types of white oak trees are laid out as follows:
- Bur Oak Tree
- Chinkapin Oak Tree
- Post Oak Tree
- Swamp White Oak Tree
- White Oak Tree
White Oak Tree Leaves
White oak tree leaves are characterized by their rounded lobs and fast-maturing acorns which sprout soon after fall arrives.
White Oak Leaf Identification Chart
In general, white oak leaf identification processes look for simple, alternately arranged leaves on twigs. These leaves are usually 7 to 9 lobed and 5 to 9 inches in length with shortened petioles.
White oak tree leaves don’t contain bristles and can vary quite widely in length at times. The surface of the leaves is usually dull green at the top and a paler green at the bottom.
The below extensive oak tree leaf identification chart indicates the different leaves of the white oak tree species that need to be examined when distinguishing between the different types of white oak trees:
| White Oak Species | Oak Tree Leaf Identification |
| Bur Oak Tree | Leaves are arranged alternately and have rounded lobes with deep sinuses. At the center of the leaf, the sinuses seem to split the body of the leaf in two. These leaves are dark green at the top and lighter green at the bottom, turning various shades of yellow in the fall. |
| Chinkapin Oak Tree | Leaves are dark green and 4” to 6 1/2” in size. The edges have coarse teeth that are yellow-green. The teeth are a distinctive feature in identifying the Chinkapin Oak tree. |
| Post Oak Tree | Leaves are distinctive with a cross shape and are 5-lobed with the two middle lobes opposite and larger than the rest. The leaves are dark green and coarse with a light-yellow underside. Both the twigs and underside of the leaves have yellow fuzz. |
Using a detailed oak tree leaf identification chart that pinpoints the differences and subtle similarities between the different species of oak trees, is one of the easiest ways to identify the leaves of each species.
Frequently Asked Questions About Oak Tree Leaf Identification Chart
Can I Learn How To Identify Different Types of Oak Trees?
One of the most popular ways to identify different types of oak trees is by using an oak tree leaf identification chart.
Where Do I Learn How To Use the Oak Tree Leaf Identification Chart?
Simply compare the details and characteristics of the leaves as laid out in the oak tree leaf identification chart to note the differences that set each oak tree species apart from the next.
How Many Species of Oak Trees Are There?
There are around 600 extant species of oak trees in existence today, which are native to the Northern hemisphere.
Where Is the Oldest Oak Tree in the US?
The oldest oak tree in the US is the Pechanga Great Oak Tree located in Temecula, California. The tree is a coast live oak and is estimated to be over 2000 years old.
What Is the Wood of Oak Trees Used For?
Wood from oak trees is popularly used for barrels to hold wines, whiskey and sherry.
Which Countries Have Adopted the Oak Tree as Their National Tree?
Bulgaria, Wales, Poland, Lithuania, the USA, Germany, Serbia, Latvia, Jordan, Cyprus, England, Moldova, Romania, Estonia, and France have adopted the Oak as their national tree.
Learn More About Oak Tree Leaf Identification Chart
Sycamore Trees: Ultimate Guide (6 Types, Seeds, Leaves, Identification)
Basswood Trees Guide: Identifying Using This 1 Odd Leaf Feature
10 Birch Tree Leaves: Easy Identification Trick & Full Chart of All Leaves
10 Ethical & Sustainable Clothing Brands You’ve Never Heard of in 2023
11 Magnolia Trees: Guide to Every Type (Colors, Sizes, Locations, Seeds)
15 Types of Oak Trees in Florida: Identification Guide (Chart, Pictures)
5 Dogwood Trees: Guide to Every Color, How to Plant, Where to Buy
How Many Types of Palm Trees Are There? (Different Pictures for Each)
Cottonwood Tree Guide: Identification of Eastern, Leaves, Seeds & More
Dogwood Tree Leaves: Easy Identification Trick (And Why They Curl)
Camphor Tree Guide & 10 Unknown Facts (Leaves, Giant, Florida vs Japanese)
References
1Ward, L. (2022, September 27). 12 Facts About Oak Trees You Wood Not Believe. The Fact Site. Retrieved September 28, 2022, from <https://www.thefactsite.com/oak-tree-facts/>
2Dhandia, V. (2019, June 14). Types of White Oak Trees In The World. Castle Bespoke. Retrieved September 28, 2022, from <https://blog.castlebespokeflooring.com/blog/types-of-white-oak-trees-in-the-world>
3Vivid Maps. (2022). Native Oak Tree Ranges in the United States. Vivid Maps. Retrieved September 28, 2022, from <https://vividmaps.com/native-oak-tree-ranges-in-the-united-states/>
4Plant Native. (2022). The Best Oak Trees to Grow in Alabama. Plant Native. Retrieved September 28, 2022, from <https://plantnative.org/the-best-oak-trees-to-grow-in-alabama.htm>
5Berg, F. (2022, September 13). 8 Different Types of Oak Trees That Grow In Maine. Tree Vitalize. Retrieved September 28, 2022, from <https://treevitalize.com/maine-oak-trees/>
6Minnesota DNR. (2022). Minnesota’s Native Trees. MN Department of Natural Resources. Retrieved September 28, 2022, from <https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/trees/native-trees.html>
7ProGardenTips. (2022). 76 Types Of Oak Trees In North America (Foliage Photos). Pro Garden Tips. Retrieved September 28, 2022, from <https://www.progardentips.com/oak-trees-in-north-america/>
8Haryasz, J. (2022, June 7). 19 Different Types Of Oak Trees With Photos For Identification. Gardening Chores. Retrieved September 28, 2022, from <https://www.gardeningchores.com/types-of-oak-trees/>
9Nix, S. (2021, May 7). Manage Live Oak – Plant and Grow a Live Oak. Tree Hugger. Retrieved September 28, 2022, from <https://www.treehugger.com/manage-and-plant-live-oak-plant-1343357>
10Vinje, E. (2022, March 4). Complete Guide to Plant, Grow, and Care for Red Oak Trees. Planet Natural Research Center. Retrieved September 28, 2022, from <https://www.planetnatural.com/red-oak-tree/>
11Friends Of The Wild Flower Garden. (2015). Oak Leaf Comparison. The Friends of the Wild Flower Garden. Retrieved September 28, 2022, from <https://www.friendsofthewildflowergarden.org/pages/plants/oakleafkey.html>
12Nix, S. (2021, April 29). Guide to Common Oak Trees of North America. Tree Hugger. Retrieved September 28, 2022, from <https://www.treehugger.com/guide-to-common-oak-trees-of-north-america-1343226>
13Canadian Tree Tours. (2022). Bur Oak. Canadian Tree Tours. Retrieved September 28, 2022, from <http://www.canadiantreetours.org/species-pages/Bur_oak.html>
14Leafy Place. (2022). Types of Oak Trees with Their Bark and Leaves – Identification Guide (Pictures). Leafy Place. Retrieved September 28, 2022, from <https://leafyplace.com/oak-tree-types-bark-leaves/>
15Wilson, M., Marcy, R. D., & Michigan State University Extension. (2021, August 11). MSU Extension. Retrieved October 21, 2022, from <https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/identifying-the-oaks-of-michigan>
16N.C. Cooperative Extension. (2022). Quercus robur. NC State Extension. Retrieved October 21, 2022, from <https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/quercus-robur/>
17Alaska Department of Natural Resources. (2013, October 10). Trees & Shrubs for South Central Alaska. Alaska Department of Natural Resources. Retrieved October 21, 2022, from <https://forestry.alaska.gov/Assets/pdfs/community/publications/SC_Trees_Shrubs.pdf>
18DE Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control. (2021, November 17). Native Indigenous Trees of Delaware. DE Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control. Retrieved October 21, 2022, from <https://documents.dnrec.delaware.gov/fw/conservation/Native-Indigenous-Trees-of-Delaware.pdf>
19USDA Forest Service. (2022). Trees of North Idaho. USDA Forest Service. Retrieved October 21, 2022, from <https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/ipnf/learning/?cid=fsm9_019072>
20North Dakota Transportation. (2017, March 6). Native Trees of North Dakota. North Dakota Transportation. Retrieved October 21, 2022, from <https://www.dot.nd.gov/manuals/design/designmanual/wordfiles_design/environmental/Appendix%20E10%20Native%20Woody%20Vegetation%20List.pdf>
21OH Department of Natural Resources. (2022). White Oak. OH Department of Natural Resources. Retrieved October 21, 2022, from <https://ohiodnr.gov/discover-and-learn/plants-trees/broad-leaf-trees/white-oak-Quercus-alba>
22Larsen, E. M., & Morgan, J. T. (1998, January). Management Recommendations for Washington’s Priority Habitats: Oregon White Oak Woodlands. Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. Retrieved October 21, 2022, from <https://wdfw.wa.gov/publications/00030>
23West Virginia Division of Natural Resources. (2021, May 13). Oak / Heath Forest. West Virginia DNR. Retrieved October 21, 2022, from <https://wvdnr.gov/outdoor-recreation/plants-fungi/oak-heath-forest/>
24Gilman, E. F., Watson, D. G., Ryan W., Koeser, A. K., Hilbert, D. R., & McLean, D. C. (2019, April 10). Quercus Falcata: Southern Red Oak. UF IFAS Extension. Retrieved October 21, 2022, from <https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ST546>
25Missouri Department of Conservation. (2022). Northern Red Oak. Missouri Department of Conservation. Retrieved October 21, 2022, from <https://mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/field-guide/northern-red-oak>
26ISU Extension and Outreach. (2022). Pin Oak Chlorosis. Iowa State University Extention and Outreach. Retrieved October 21, 2022, from <https://hortnews.extension.iastate.edu/pin-oak-chlorosis>
27Missouri Department of Conservation. (2022). Willow Oak. Missouri Department of Conservation. Retrieved October 21, 2022, from <https://mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/field-guide/willow-oak>
28Photo by Katja Schulz. (CC BY 2.0 DEED Attribution 2.0 Generic). Resized, Changed Format. Flickr. Retrieved from <https://www.flickr.com/photos/treegrow/22874800152/>
29Photo by Anthony A Simmons. (CC0 1.0 DEED CC0 1.0 Universal). Resized and changed format. iNaturalist. Retrieved March 21, 2024, from <https://www.flickr.com/photos/62614925@N00/2236093142/>
30Photo by JamesDeMers. Resized and changed format. Pixabay. Retrieved from <https://pixabay.com/photos/virginia-live-oak-southern-live-oak-440351/>
31Photo by Couleur. Resized and changed format. Pixabay. Retrieved from <https://pixabay.com/images/id-3666667/>
32Photo by Benjamin Bruce. (CC BY 2.5 DEED). Resized, Changed Format. Wikimedia Commons. Retrieved from <https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Quercus_stellata.jpg>
33Photo by Ann G. Resized and changed format. Unsplash. Retrieved from <https://unsplash.com/photos/iAWRAB7yFDU>
34Photo by Mason Brock. Public Domain. Resized and changed format. Wikimedia Commons. Retrieved from <https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Blackjack_leaf.JPG>
35Photo by Daderot. CC0 1.0 DEED. Resized and changed format. Wikimedia Commons. Retrieved from <https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Quercus_acuta_-_Caerhayes_Castle_gardens_-_Cornwall,_England_-_DSC03088.jpg>
36Photo by MyName (Jamidwyer). Public Domain. Resized and change format. Wikimedia Commons. Retrieved from <https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Quercus_garryana.jpg>
37Photo by Alan Levine. Public Domain. Resized and changed format. Flickr. Retrieved from <https://flickr.com/photos/37996646802@N01/29642989594>
38Photo by Denver Botanic Gardens. CC0. Resized and changed format. Wikimedia Commons. Retrieved from <https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:20180620_GGIGardens_MordecaiChildrens_DSCN0170.jpg>
39Photo by KP Botany~commonswiki. Public Domain. Resized and changed format. Wikimedia Commons. Retrieved from <https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Quercus_lobata_leaves_Caswell_Memorial_State_Park_San_Joaquin_Valley_California.jpg>
40Photo by Stefan Schweihofer. Resized and changed format. Pixabay. Retrieved from <https://pixabay.com/photos/bark-tree-oak-moss-trunk-wood-207252/>
41Photo by Kati. Resized and changed format. Pixabay. Retrieved from <https://pixabay.com/images/id-970188/>
42Photo by Hans. Resized and changed format. Pixabay. Retrieved from <https://pixabay.com/images/id-61975/>