Bur Oak vs Russian Olive - TreeTime.ca

Bur Oak vs Russian Olive

Quercus macrocarpa

Elaeagnus angustifolia

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON

(new stock expected: fall of 2026)

Bur Oak
Russian Olive

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.

Russian Olive is a medium-sized deciduous tree that has attractive silvery coloured foliage with small yellow flowers that emit a fragrant sweet smell.

It is drought and salt tolerant, and works well as a shelterbelt species. Russian Olive can also be used to combat erosion.

Note: although Russian Olive is planted as an attractive boulevard tree in many northern areas, in warmer areas it can invade watersheds and is considered invasive. Please do some research and plant the right tree in the right place.

Bur Oak Quick Facts

Russian Olive Quick Facts

Lowest Price: $4.49 - SAVE UP TO 25%
Zone: 2b
Zone: 2a
Height: 20 m (66 ft)
Height: 9 m (30 ft)
Spread: 8 m (28 ft)
Spread: 5 m (15 ft)
Moisture: dry, normal
Moisture: dry, normal
Light: full sun
Light: full sun
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: yes
Catkins: no
Fall colour: yellow to golden brown
Flowers: yellow
Nuts: small acorns
Growth rate: slow
Growth rate: medium
Life span: long
Life span: medium
Suckering: low
Suckering: none


In row spacing: 1.8 - 2.4 m (6 - 8 ft)
Between row spacing: 5 m (16 ft)


Other Names: blue oak, burr oak, mossycup oak, scrub oak
Other Names: silver berry oleaster, wild olive