The Pin Oak Tree --- A Great Shade Tree for the Yard

As you become familiar with my writing style for most of the trees and shrubs, I will be looking at the following basic characteristics when describing a plant’s uses.

• Plant Growth Habit
• Plant Hardiness
• Landscape Use

My favorite variety of trees is the oaks. Some form of oak species exists in most areas of the United States. In plant zones 4 and 5, we have the pleasure of having red oaks, white oaks, and pin oaks.

When my parents started adding shade trees to their home, they added two pin oaks. After over 40 years the trees are doing well, are over 60 feet in height, and tower over their home. This early introduction to the pin oak made the tree a must have in my yard and the tree has always been a great seller in Ohio garden centers.
　

The pin oak’s growth shape is best described as pyramidal as a young tree. When you think of a pyramidal shape envision a triangular shaped object. If not pruned the tree limbs will reach down and touch the ground further accentuating the pyramidal shape. For most of us, we need to trim the lower branches so we can mow under the tree.

The pin oaks leaves are pointed and dark gloss green and persist on the tree through the winter months as a very brown color. The fall color of the pin oak can be a mottled yellow-brown color and in color though I have seen some great reddish brown coloration.

As the tree matures great crops of acorns are produced.

The tree is generally very hardy though galls (growths caused by insects) and iron chlorosis can be problems. The most destructive insect can be the gypsy moth, though fortunately through area management; there have not been major infestations in the area we live.

The pin oak becomes a large tree (60-70’ in height with a 25-40’). So the best location for this tree in the home landscape is sufficient distance from the house. I would recommend a minimum of 20 feet from the house---though further would be best!