Bur Oak vs Northern Red Oak - TreeTime.ca

Bur Oak vs Northern Red Oak

Quercus rubra

Quercus macrocarpa

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON

(new stock expected: fall of 2026)

Northern Red Oak
Bur Oak

Northern Red Oak is a medium-sized deciduous tree. It is fast-growing (for an oak tree) and is used primarily in lawns, parks, golf courses, street-side plantings, and commercial areas. Northern Red Oak's fall color is spectacular.

In open spaces, it has a short, massive trunk and an extensive crown. In forests Northern Red Oak grows with a tall columnar bole and small rounded head.

We are one of the only nurseries growing this tree.

Check out some video of the spectacular fall colour on our Northern Red Oak seedlings just before harvest on our YouTube Channel.

Note: Most Oak species can be considered toxic for many animals.

Bur Oak has a wide distribution but is one of the only oaks that will grow well on the prairies. Bur Oak produces deeply lobed, dark green leaves that turn golden yellow to brown in the fall.

Its acorns are round and half enclosed by a mossy fringed cup.

Although slower growing, this long lived tree eventually becomes a popular large ornamental tree for driveways, parks, and the front of industrial buildings. Popular as a memorial or dedication tree.

Note: Most Oak species can be considered toxic for many animals.

Northern Red Oak Quick Facts

Bur Oak Quick Facts

Lowest Price: $5.99 - SAVE UP TO 63%
Zone: 3a
Zone: 2b
Height: 20 m (66 ft)
Height: 20 m (66 ft)
Spread: 9 m (30 ft)
Spread: 8 m (28 ft)
Moisture: normal
Moisture: dry, normal
Light: partial shade, full sun
Light: full sun
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: yes
Fall colour: yellow to golden brown
Bark: Smooth and grey (young), Furrowed and grey (mature)
Nuts: Produces acorns
Nuts: small acorns
Growth rate: medium
Growth rate: slow
Life span: long
Life span: long
Suckering: none
Suckering: low




Other Names: champion oak, red oak
Other Names: blue oak, burr oak, mossycup oak, scrub oak