PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates intense sun and drought once fully established
Watering
Drought-tolerant; water deeply only during extended dry spells, especially for young saplings
Temperature
Hardy to -29°C; adapts to hot, humid summers and cold, dry winters
Characteristics
- Leaf: Thick, leathery leaves with 5–7 rounded lobes, stellate pubescence on undersides
- Flower: Inconspicuous male catkins and small female spikes
- Bark: Gray-brown, furrowed into rough, blocky plates
Care Guide
Watering
Water young trees deeply every 7–10 days; mature trees need minimal supplemental water
Fertilization
Apply slow-release balanced fertilizer once in early spring. Fertilize only young trees or nutrient-deficient mature specimens
Composted eggshell powder：Mix 1–2 cups of finely ground, composted eggshells into the top 5 cm of soil around the drip line in early spring; avoid direct contact with the trunk to prevent tissue damagePruning
- Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter before new growth emerges
- Thin dense inner canopy to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
- Maintain the tree's natural rounded crown shape; avoid heavy pruning that stresses the tree
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Mildly toxic; ingestion of acorns or leaves may cause vomiting and diarrhea
Humans: Raw acorns and leaves contain tannins; large ingestion may cause gastrointestinal upset
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes strength and longevity in American rural folklore
Usage: Lumber for construction and furniture; provides wildlife habitat for birds and small mammals
