Quercus biocolour, or swamp white oak is a durable, long-lived tree that thrives in moderate to wet, acidic soils and full sun. Its Native range extends across eastern and central North America, from southwestern Maine to southern Quebec and Ontario, and south to Iowa, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Virginia, and New Jersey. It has surprisingly good drought resistance and is one of the easiest oaks to transplant. This tree is ideal for wet ground and low spots, making it a good choice for areas prone to moisture (but not flooding). This species may experience chlorosis in alkaline soils but is tolerant of salt and heat stress. Pruning in the dormant season helps prevent attracting beetles that could carry oak wilt. Quercus bicolor drops large acorns and a considerable number of leaves, with the heaviest shedding in the fall. It is considered moderately messy due to the acorn litter and abundant leaf drop that requires regular cleanup
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Planting Site and Native Range
Planting Site
Naturalization, Parks, Highway, Residential, Wide Median
Management Notes
Management Notes
Acorns can be a litter issue in some years Can develop chlorosis in alkaline soils
Tree Characteristics
Growth Rate
Slow (less than 30cm per year)
Width
15 - 18m
Height
15 - 18m
Soil Quantity
>30 m
Leaves
Deciduous
Insects and Diseases
Insects and Diseases
No serious or common issues in the urban environment. Wide range of pests in general for oak (Quercus) species that mainly affect its appearance slightly in minor cases. Two lined chestnut borer has been observed to attack and kill stressed Oak trees in Ontario.
Tree Tolerances
Soil Salt Tolerance
Tolerant
Salt Spray Tolerance
Sensitive
Flooding Tolerance
High
Drought Tolerance
Very High
pH Tolerance
Tolerant of acid to slightly alkaline soil (pH 5.0 to 7.5)