Willow Oak Quercus phellos 20 Seeds USA Company

Quercus phellos, commonly called willow oak, is a medium to large, deciduous oak tree of the red oak group that is noted for its oak shape, willow-like leaves and relatively fast growth rate. It is native to the Southeastern United States, typically being found in moist bottomland soils. It grows in woodlands, along streams and in swamps. Willow oak typically grows 40-75’ tall with an oval to rounded crown, but may reach 100’ in ideal conditions. Smooth-edged, bristle-tipped, narrow, green leaves (to 5” long and 1” wide) are willow-like. Fruits are rounded acorn cups (to 1/2” long). Acorns can be an important source of food for wildlife. Dark, irregularly-furrowed trunks (gray to dark gray-brown) develop on mature trees.

Willow oak is generally considered to have good resistance to pests and to be a low-maintenance, long-lived tree. A medium to large shade tree for large lawns, along streets or in parks. Also effective along ponds or water gardens. Easily grown in average, medium to wet, well-drained soils in full sun. Tolerates light shade. Prefers moist well-drained loams, but adapts to a wide range of soil conditions including clays with somewhat poor drainage. Generally tolerant of urban pollution. Hardy in Zones 5-9.

 

Growing Instructions for the Willow Oak

 

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. Soak the seeds in water for 24 hours. 2. Put the seeds in a ziplock bag. 3. Put the bag in the refrigerator and leave it there for 3 months. 4. The seeds like moist, well-drained soil. Prepare a mixture of half potting soil and half sand, perlite or vermiculite. Put the soil in a pot. 5. Sow the seeds 1 inch deep in the soil. 6. Water the soil so that it is moist but not wet. 8. When the seedlings are a few inches tall, they can be transplanted.