Quercus macrocarpa – Bur oak, Mossycup oak

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Fagaceae

Quercus macrocarpa – Bur oak, Mossycup oak

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Relatively slow growing large tree with a round crown. In nature the tree can reach over 40 m: in culture it is rarely taller than 25 m. The young twigs are grey-brown and covered with short hairs. From the third or fourth year the twigs develop corky fissures. The thick bark is grooved with elongated plates. The large, long obovate leaf is very variably lobed. The leaf is glossy dark green and 15 to 25 cm, even growing to 30 cm long in young trees. The peculiar cupule encloses around half to two-thirds of the acorn. The cupule is scaly and on its upper edge the scales are longer. They hang like a sort of fringe around the acorn. Depending on the area of origin the fruit measures 1.8 to 5 cm. Trees with a more southern area of origin have larger fruit than ones from northern regions. A particularly hardy, imposing park tree.
Our trees can only be planted when they don't have any leaves. Due to the this we will start delivering again from November 2025.
Availability
Important notice: Due to legal restrictions, this product is unfortunately not available for delivery in your region. Please contact us to discuss possible alternatives. We apologise for any inconvenience.
Specifications
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Height
15 - 25 m
Width
15-25m
Crown
round, half-open crown
Bark and branches
twigs grey brown, hairy, bark grey, thick and grooved with elongated flat plates
Leaf
long obovate, lobed, glossy dark green, 15 - 20 (30) cm
Flowers
yellow-green ♂ catkins, May
Fruits
broad ovate, 1.8 - 5 cm, cupule scaly, on the upper edge covered with longer, thin scales
Spines/thorns
None
Toxicity
usually not toxic to people, (large) pets and livestock
Soil type
preferably on calcareous, fertile soil
Paving
tolerates no paving
Winter hardiness zone
3 (-40,0 to -24,5 °C)
Wind resistance
good
Other resistances
resistant to frost (WH 1 - 6), can withstand wind, resistant to de-icing salt
Application
avenues and broad streets, industrial areas
Shape
clearstem tree, multi-stem treem
Origin
Eastern and Central USA and bordering areas in Canada
Clear stem tree Multi-stem tree calcareous soil clay soil loamy soil sandy soil tolerates no paving resistant to de-icing salt resistant to frost (WH 1 - 6) can withstand wind 1st size , taller than 12 metres half-open crown green yellowgreen average growing non-toxic (usually)
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Frequently asked questions
Quercus macrocarpa

Quercus macrocarpa can eventually reach a height of 15 - 25 m, depending on the site and climate conditions.

Quercus macrocarpa is average growing and can eventually reach a height of 15 - 25 m, depending on the site and climate conditions.

The right time to plant Quercus macrocarpa is during the dormancy period. In Western Europe, Quercus macrocarpa with root balls can generally be planted from mid-November to late April, although this depends strongly on the climatic conditions and the species of tree.

Quercus macrocarpa blooms in may.
General

Yes, we deliver to the UK. Delivery costs depend on the region and the total order value. Below, you’ll find all the details.

Delivery charges for private customers are calculated based on your region and are visible during the checkout process. We also offer discounts based on the total value of your order:

  • Orders over £1,000: Receive a 50% discount on delivery costs.
  • Orders over £2,000: Delivery is completely free.

Yes, for trees with a size of 50-60 cm girth or larger, additional delivery charges apply due to the need for specialised transport. These costs will be calculated separately and shared with you after your order is placed. We will contact you to discuss the transport options and costs.

Once you add items to your basket and proceed to the checkout, the system will calculate the delivery charges for your region. If your order qualifies for any discounts, they will automatically be applied.

For any questions or specific delivery requests, feel free to contact our customer service team. We’re happy to help arrange the best delivery solution for your order.