Turkey Oak (Quercus laevis) is a striking native tree that grows 30–40 ft tall and 10–15 ft wide, perfect as a specimen or shade tree. A long-lived perennial with brilliant red fall foliage and strong hurricane resistance, it brings seasonal beauty and durability to any landscape. Spring blooms and fall acorns attract squirrels, deer, wild turkeys, and nesting birds, while also servings at the host plant for Horace’s Duskywing, Red-banded Hairstreak, and White-M Hairstreak butterflies.
Thriving in full sun to part shade, Turkey Oak prefers sandy, slightly acidic to calcareous soils and tolerates long dry spells. It’s not suited for coastal areas due to low salt tolerance and should be planted in a permanent spot, as its deep taproot makes transplanting difficult. A resilient, wildlife-friendly choice for native gardens.
- Shade tree
- Size: 30-40 ft. tall by 10-15 ft.
- Blooms in spring, red fall color
- Exposure: Full sun, part shade
- Moisture: Well-drained to dry
- Soil: Sand
- Hurricane wind resistant
- Larval host plant for Horace’s Duskywing, Red-banded Hairstreak, White-M Hairstreak butterflies