The Shumard Oak is a large, stately tree of the southeastern United States that is in the red oak group and is similar to the pin oak and the scarlet oak. It has deeply lobed leaves and large acorns with shallow cups. It is a good drought and heat resistant tree that can be grown in areas that are too far south for more northern oaks that have a similar appearance. Pyramidal in youth but spreads to a broad open crown with age. Typically grows at a moderately fast rate to a height of 40-60' (to 100' in the wild). Shiny, dark green leaves (6-8" long) with deep, spiny lobes (usually 7-9 lobes). Fall color is often a respectable brownish red. It occurs in moist locations in bottomlands and lowlands, including sites along streams and lakes, valleys, floodplains and at the edge of swamps. Easily grown in average, dry to medium moisture, acidic, well-drained soils in full sun. Tolerates a wide range of soil conditions including wet soils. Garden Uses. Shade tree, street tree, lawn tree. Does well in wide range of soils from dry locations to wet ground and low spots. Hardy in zones 5-9.
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Growing Instructions for the Shumard Oak
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The seeds have a period of dormancy. They can be planted outdoors in the fall or winter for spring germination or they can be cold stratified to simulate winter conditions and to break their dormancy at any time of the year. 1. Place the seeds in a plastic bag and seal it. Store the bag in a refrigerator for 3 months. 2. The seeds like moist, well-drained soil. Fill a pot with a mixture of half potting soil and half sand or vermiculite. 3. Sow the seeds on the soil and cover them with a layer of soil. 4. Water the container. 5. Put the pot in a warm, sunny area. 6. Water the pot regularly so that the soil is moist but not wet. 7. The seedlings can be transplanted when they are a few inches tall.