Ironwood Tree vs Swamp White Oak - TreeTime.ca

Ironwood Tree vs Swamp White Oak

Ostrya virginiana

Quercus bicolor

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

Ironwood Tree
Swamp White Oak

Ironwood Tree is one of the strongest and most resilient trees you will find in North America. In fact, it has the hardest and most dense wood of any North American tree. Prized for its oval shaped canopy and showy winter trunk, this striking shade tree will make a beautiful addition to any yard. Make sure you do not plant near roads as it is highly salt sensitive.

The Swamp White Oak is a medium-sized deciduous tree native to North America. It is commonly found in swamps, lowlands, floodplains, and near streams and lakes. The leaves are two-toned, green on top and silvery-white on the undersides, adding to the visual appeal of this popular shade tree.

In the fall, the Swamp White Oak produces acorns which are an important food source for wildlife. It also provides a habitat for the larvae of many butterfly and moth species, playing an important ecological role. Although its growth is slow in the first few years, once the roots are established, it can achieve faster annual growth.

Ironwood Tree Quick Facts

Swamp White Oak Quick Facts

Zone: 3a
Zone: 4a
Height: 8 m (25 ft)
Height: 15 m (50 ft)
Spread: 6 m (20 ft)
Spread: 15 m (50 ft)
Light: any
Light: partial shade, full sun
Moisture: any
Moisture: normal, wet
Growth rate: slow
Growth rate: medium
Life span: long
Life span: long
Suckering: none
Suckering: none


Toxicity: mildly toxic to humans, cats, and dogs
Nuts: acorns
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: yes
Catkins: no


Native to: ON, QC, NS, NB, PE
Native to: ON, QC
Other Names: bicolor oak