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Arboretum

Shingle Oak (Quercus imbricaria)

"With smooth, unlobed leaves and a graceful canopy, Shingle Oak reminds us that even familiar things can hold unexpected surprises."

Take a Moment: Look closely at the leaves of the Shingle Oak. Unlike most oaks, its leaves have no lobes or teeth. Notice their smooth edges and elongated shape, more reminiscent of a laurel than a traditional oak. Take a moment to appreciate the beauty of something that doesn't quite fit our expectations.

Why We Love This Tree

Shingle Oak stands apart from its relatives with its distinctive, simple leaves and graceful, rounded canopy. Its understated beauty and adaptability make it a wonderful addition to the landscape.

This tree reminds us that individuality is something to celebrate. Sometimes the most remarkable qualities are found in the things that make us different.

 

 

Chestbut oak in summer

Shingle Oak in Summer

 
 

 

Meet the Tree

Native to the central and eastern United States, Shingle Oak is a member of the red oak group and is most commonly found in woodlands, bottomlands, and along streams.

Unlike most oak species, Shingle Oak has smooth-edged, unlobed leaves that can easily be mistaken for those of other hardwood trees. Its common name comes from the historical use of its wood to make shingles by early settlers.

As it matures, Shingle Oak develops a broad, rounded crown that provides generous shade. Its leaves often remain on the branches well into winter, a characteristic known as marcescence.

Ecological Benefits

Shingle Oak provides valuable food and habitat for native wildlife. Its acorns are eaten by squirrels, deer, wild turkeys, and other birds and mammals.

Like other native oaks, it serves as a host plant for numerous species of butterflies and moths, supporting local food webs and biodiversity. Its dense canopy also offers shelter and nesting opportunities for birds.

Did You Know?


Shingle Oak is one of the few native oak species with completely unlobed leaves. Its smooth, narrow foliage makes it easy to mistake for a willow or laurel, despite being a true oak.

Quick Facts

Native: Central and Eastern United States

Type: Deciduous Tree

Size: 40 to 60 ft tall × 40 to 60 ft wide

Sun: Full Sun to Partial Shade

Water: Moderate

Growth Rate: Moderate

Fruit: Small acorns that mature in two growing seasons

Fall Color: Yellow-brown to reddish-brown

Botanical Profile

Family: Fagaceae

Common Names: Shingle Oak, Laurel Oak

Genus Meaning: Quercus is the classical Latin name for oak trees.

Species Meaning: imbricaria refers to overlapping roof tiles or shingles, a reference to the historical use of its wood for roofing.

How to Recognize It

Look for these distinctive characteristics:

  • Smooth-edged, unlobed, oblong leaves
  • Dark green, glossy summer foliage
  • Gray-brown bark that develops shallow furrows with age
  • Small, rounded acorns with shallow caps
  • Broad, rounded crown
  • Leaves that may remain attached through winter

Growing Conditions

Light: Full sun to partial shade

Soil: Well-drained, moist, slightly acidic to neutral soils; adaptable to a range of soil types

Moisture: Moderate

Hardiness: USDA Zones 5 to 8

Tolerance: Urban conditions, occasional drought once established, and a range of soil conditions