Quercus Velutina - Black Oak Seedlings

The Quercus velutina, or the black oak tree as it is commonly known, is a tough native oak of the eastern and central United States. It gets its name from its characteristic black bark. However, when cut, it reveals a yellow inner bark that was once used for dyes. Its glossy green leaves turn yellow to dull red in the fall, and this magnificent tree can live up to 200 years in the right conditions.

Quercus velutina Seedlings: Hardy in Different Climates

Black oak is hardy in USDA zones 3 through 9; it handles cold northern winters and hot, humid Southern summers alike. It does well in mildly acidic, well-drained soil but can also be found growing in dry or rocky ground where other oaks don’t grow. Once established, the black oak is drought tolerant and handles urban conditions well, making it a good candidate for planting in city parks and large yards.

Black oak is tough, but it belongs to the red oak group, so it is more susceptible to oak wilt than white oaks. Don't prune it from April through July, when the beetles that carry oak wilt are out. Rather, trim in winter, and the trees will need very little from you.

Black Oak: A Dependable Acorn Tree for Wildlife

Among our native oaks, black oak is one of the most consistent producers of acorns. At about 20 years old, they start bearing and peak between 40 and 75 years. You get good crops from them every two to three years. The acorns ripen in two years and attract squirrels, white-tailed deer, mice, wild turkeys, and blue jays. Their leaves are also ecologically useful as they feed native caterpillars that songbirds depend on to feed their young.

However, the leaves and acorns of the black oak tree are toxic to horses, so keep them out of pastures.

Black Oak Seedlings for Sale: Planting Them Bare Root

This plant ships bare root. Our black oak seedlings for sale come in 6 to 12 or 12 to 18 inches tall, in packs of 50, 100, or 500. The seedlings of Quercus velutina are the best way to start black oak planting before the powerful taproot establishes too far. Plant them while dormant, with access to full sunlight and ample space for the roots to grow. Space them 15 to 20 feet apart for a woodlot, clear the grass in a 2-foot circle around each one, and water weekly through the first summer. Expect slow top growth for a year or two while the roots get down. Planting a mixed woodlot? Browse our other seedlings.

Planting & Growing Information

Ships: Ships Between November 15-29
Planting Zone: 3-9
Height at Maturity: 50-60 Feet
Water Needs: Moderate
Sun or Shade: Full sun
Bloom Season: April through May
Care: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Mulch near the bottom to maintain moisture and protect the roots. Ensure the soil is well-drained and slightly acidic. Prune only in winter.
Exposure: Oak seedlings thrive in full sun to partial shade. Young seedlings will not grow in shade. Ensure they receive at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Plant Attributes: Resilience and adaptability, Acorn production for wildlife, Drought-tolerant native oak, lives up to 200 years

For more detailed planting and care information, read our oak seedling guide. You can also explore our tree seedlings collection to discover more young trees for your landscape, reforestation, and wildlife projects.