Quercus muehlenbergii

Common Names

Chinkapin Oak, Yellow Chestnut Oak, Chinquapin Oak, Yellow Oak, Chestnut Oak, Rock Oak, Chinkapin

Summary

Chinkapin oak is a deciduous white oak native to eastern North America, typically 40–60 ft tall with a broad rounded crown, producing chestnut-like toothed leaves that are glossy dark green on top and pale beneath and turning yellow to orange in fall; the bark is light gray and the wood is heavy and durable, with acorns that are small and sweet and valued by wildlife. This species tolerates dry, well-drained calcareous soils and has a deep taproot that supports drought tolerance.

Preferring full sun and well-drained soils, it tolerates alkaline conditions and exhibits drought tolerance once established; propagation is from acorns, which are edible for humans after tannins are leached, and acorns are a wildlife food source. It is commonly used as a shade tree for large landscapes and provides timber value, with relatively low-maintenance needs once established and notable resistance to oak wilt.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

40-60 feet

Spread

50-70 ft

Hardiness Zones

Zones 4-7

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally full sun, tolerates partial shade, young plants: partial shade, mature plants: full sun

Soil Type

Well-drained calcareous loam (limestone-derived) soil; pH 6.5–7.5.

Soil Drainage

Well-drained soil

Soil pH

Alkaline soils (pH above 7), ideal range 6.8-7.8

Bloom Color

Insignificant

Bloom Time

Spring

Foliage Color

Dark green foliage on the upper surface with lighter green undersides; overall green to yellow-green that turns yellow, orange, or brown in autumn.

Fall Foliage Color

Yellow, orange, brown

Leaf Lifecycle

Deciduous

Growth Rate

Moderate; about 1–2 ft per year when young, slowing to about 1 ft per year.

Seasons of Interest

Spring and Fall

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Cuttings, Grafting

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts birds and butterflies