Pin Oak (Quercus palustris) is a graceful, fast-growing native oak known for its distinct pyramidal shape, deeply lobed green leaves, and striking dark-red fall foliage. Reaching 60-70 feet tall (sometimes taller), this straight-trunked tree develops spreading to horizontal branches with fine, pin-like twigs, creating a broad, symmetrical canopy. As it matures, lower branches shed naturally, giving older trees a high-crowned, open appearance.

Named for its many short, spur-like twigs, pin oak is one of the easiest oaks to transplant, thanks to its shallow, fibrous root system. It thrives in moist, acidic soils, tolerates poor drainage and occasional flooding, and provides essential habitat and food for wildlife—especially ducks, turkeys, songbirds, squirrels, and deer, which feed on its nutrient-rich acorns.

Why Grow Pin Oak?

• Fast-Growing & Long-Lived: One of the fastest-growing oaks, adding shade and beauty to landscapes within a few years.
• Stunning Seasonal Color: Displays deep green foliage in summer that turns rich, dark red in fall, with leaves persisting into winter.
• Thrives in Moist & Flood-Prone Areas: Adapted to wet soils and lowland areas, making it ideal for rain gardens and erosion control.
• Wildlife Magnet: Produces acorns that are a vital food source for ducks, turkeys, songbirds, deer, and small mammals.
• Essential for Pollinators: Supports over 500 species of butterfly and moth caterpillars, providing crucial food for birds and pollinators.
• Resilient & Easy to Transplant: Unlike many other oaks, Pin Oak transplants easily and adapts well to urban settings.
• Pollinator-Safe: Grown non-GMO and free of harmful neonicotinoids, promoting a healthy ecosystem for pollinators and wildlife.

Available as single trees shipped in one-gallon containers to establish a beautiful, fast-growing shade tree in your landscape.

Planting Tips: 

1. Location: Prefers full sun for best growth and fall color. Thrives in medium to wet, acidic soils, tolerates poor drainage, and withstands occasional flooding. Avoid planting in alkaline soils, as it may develop iron chlorosis, causing yellowing leaves.
2. Watering: Water regularly during the first few years to establish deep roots. Prefers consistent moisture but becomes drought-tolerant once established.
3. Spacing & Planting: Space trees 20-40 feet apart for healthy canopy development. Works well as a shade tree, street tree, or rain garden addition.
4. Maintenance: Naturally self-pruning, so lower limbs will shed over time—no need for excessive trimming. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and protect roots.

For more information on planting, view our How to Plant Your Native Plants guide and other planting tips in the Garden for Wildlife Learning Center. 

Plant a Pin Oak and enjoy fast-growing shade, stunning seasonal color, and a tree that supports both people and wildlife!

Shipping Range:

• CT
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Zip Code Verification: Our plants are grown regionally to thrive where you live and help local wildlife. Confirm availability for your area using the zip code checker near the add to cart button above.

Returns: Due to the nature of our products, we are unable to offer order cancellations, returns or exchanges. In order to guarantee your satisfaction, all plants are covered by our Plant Guarantee.

*To ensure your plants arrive healthy, we may delay shipments to certain areas during times of extreme temperatures, natural disasters, or other conditions that will impact the plants during transit

Sizing: This tree ships in a one gallon container with established root mass.

Recommended container sizes (in width) for container planting: