Quercus ellipsoidalis, northern pin oak, also known as Hill's oak, grows best in dry to medium, well-drained soils with average acidity and full sun. While it prefers consistent moisture, it can tolerate dry soils and is adaptable to a range of conditions, including alkaline soils, which typically cause chlorosis in other oaks. It is native to the north-central United States and south-central Canada, primarily in the Great Lakes region and the Upper Mississippi Valley.� This tree produces acorns as a food source for wildlife, including deer, bears, and birds. Pruning in the dormant season helps prevent attracting beetles that carry oak wilt. Despite occasional galls and insect damage, this oak is a durable, low-maintenance tree for a variety of landscapes. Quercus ellipsoidalis drops acorns and a moderate number of leaves, with the heaviest shedding in the fall. It is considered moderately messy due to the acorn litter and seasonal leaf drop that require regular cleanup.