Shop seeds & grow with confidence.
Grow your own majestic Red Oak tree (Quercus rubra) from seed. Native to North America, the Red Oak is renowned for its broad canopy, fast growth, and brilliant red fall foliage. It's a long-lived, hardy deciduous tree perfect for shade, landscaping, or native restoration projects.
Type: Deciduous Tree
Height: Up to 60–75 feet (18–23 m)
Spread: 40–60 feet wide (12–18 m)
Sun: Full sun
Soil: Well-drained, slightly acidic soil
Germination Time: 30–90 days with cold stratification
Planting Time: Fall or early spring after stratification
Zone: USDA Zones 4–8
Growth Rate: Fast for an oak (up to 2 feet/year)
Features:
Brilliant red fall color
Long lifespan (up to 300 years)
Attracts wildlife – squirrels, deer, and birds
Strong, wind-resistant hardwood
Note: Red oak acorns require cold stratification for successful germination. Mimic winter by placing them in a moist medium in the refrigerator for 6–8 weeks before planting.
✓ Long-term project for fruit or tree growers
✓ Helpful for planning garden space
✓ Clear product details for easier garden planning
✓ Useful for comparing varieties before planting
✓ Suitable for specialty garden collections
Start Red Oak as a long-term growing project in a well-drained seed-starting mix.
Keep seedlings warm, lightly moist, and protected while roots develop.
Transplant only when plants are established and local climate, spacing, and winter protection needs are suitable.
Tips for sowing, growing and enjoying your next seed order.
Read the Guide