Bur Oak vs Black Locust - TreeTime.ca

Bur Oak vs Black Locust

Quercus macrocarpa

Robinia pseudoacacia

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

COMING SOON

(new stock expected: fall of 2025)

Bur Oak
Black Locust

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.

Black Locust is an attractive tree. Its distinctive leaves are made of about a dozen bright green leaflets. It also notable for its fragrant white flowers, which smell of citrus.

Black Locust can grow in many situations, but prefers dry areas with lots of sun. It is robust and is an excellent choice for establishing shade in dry, open areas.

Important note: Much of the Black Locust is toxic to humans and livestock, including seeds, bark, and leaves.

Bur Oak Quick Facts

Black Locust Quick Facts

Zone: 2b
Zone: 3a
Height: 20 m (66 ft)
Height: 12 m (40 ft)
Spread: 8 m (28 ft)
Spread: 8 m (25 ft)
Light: full sun
Light: full sun
Moisture: dry, normal
Moisture: dry, normal
Growth rate: slow
Growth rate: fast
Life span: long
Life span: long
Suckering: low
Suckering: high


Fall colour: yellow to golden brown
Bark: dark reddish brown to balck with furrows
Flowers: Creamy white flowers in a pyramidal shape bloom in may-june
Nuts: small acorns
Seeds: dark brown peapod-like pods
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: yes
Catkins: no


Native to: SK, MB, ON, QC, NB
Other Names: blue oak, burr oak, mossycup oak, scrub oak
Other Names: false acacia, yellow locust