The Shumard Red Oak, scientifically known as Quercus shumardii, is a large and majestic deciduous tree native to North America. It belongs to the Fagaceae family and is commonly found in the central and southeastern United States.
Characterized by its tall stature, the Shumard Red Oak can reach heights of up to 100 feet (30 meters), with a broad and rounded crown that spreads to around 50 feet (15 meters) wide. Its trunk is often straight and can have a diameter of 3 to 4 feet (0.9 to 1.2 meters). The bark of the Shumard Red Oak is thick, rough, and grayish-brown in color, with shallow furrow-like ridges.
Famed for its vibrant autumnal display, this magnificent tree boasts lustrous, deeply lobed leaves that turn vivid shades of red, orange, and burgundy during the fall season. The Shumard Red Oak produces flowers in the form of small, inconspicuous catkins, followed by nut-like acorns encased in a scaly cupule.
Highly adaptable, the Shumard Red Oak thrives in a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils. It favors full sun exposure and is often found in bottomland forests, upland areas, and along stream banks. Its dense and durable wood has desirable commercial uses in furniture making and construction.
The Shumard Red Oak is an iconic tree that provides both aesthetic and ecological value. It serves as a shelter and food source for various wildlife species, including birds, deer, and squirrels. Furthermore, it contributes to the overall health and biodiversity of forest ecosystems, making it an essential component of North America's natural
