Native Plant Trust

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