New England Wild Flower Society

Printed at http://plantfinder.nativeplanttrust.org/index.cfm/

Quercus muehlenbergii

chinquapin oak, chinkapin oak


Although it is found in rocky outcrops in the wild, chinquapin oak does best in cultivation when sited in moist fertile loams. The acorns are loved by wildlife, but it can take up to 30 years for this species to start producing. Unlike other oaks, this species prefers alkaline soils.



Height: 40-60 ft
Spread: 40-60 ft
Hardiness Zone: 3-7


Bloom Color: Insignificant

Characteristics & Attributes

Cultivation Status
• Species
Exposure
• Sun
Soil Moisture
• Average
• Dry
• Wet
Ecoregion
• (83) Eastern Great Lakes Lowlands
• (58) Northeastern Highlands
• (84) Atlantic Coastal Pine Barrens
• (59) Northeastern Coastal Zone
Ornamental Interest
• Fall Foliage
Attracts Wildlife
• Host Plant
• Pollinator Powerhouse Plant
• Attracts Songbirds
• Other Pollinators/Wildlife
Tolerance
• Urban Environment
Additional Attributes
• Low Maintenance
Landscape Use
• Specimen
• Rain Garden
Attractive Fall Foliage and/or Ornamental Fruit
• Bright Yellow to Bronze Fall Foliage
Growth Habit
• Compact/Clumping


North American Distribution


Photo by Vince Hale, iNaturalist, https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/243663969
Photo by Vince Hale, iNaturalist, https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/243663969
Photo by lanechaffin, iNaturalist, https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/64378955
Photo by lanechaffin, iNaturalist, https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/64378955