Turkey Oak

Turkey oaks grow wild in dry, sandy areas throughout the Southeast, averaging 15 to 30 feet in height. Because of their compact size, they're also a worthwhile tree for many home landscapes.

Turkey oaks feature foliage that has a classic oak-leaf shape. And thanks to their bright red foliage in the fall and highly textured bark, they’re interesting trees to look at no matter what the season.

Turkey oaks appreciate regular watering while they’re getting established, but after that, they’re drought tolerant and require little care.

And because they produce an abundant acorn crop, planting a turkey oak could bring you a parade of wildlife, including squirrels, deer, or yes, even a turkey.

UF/IFAS Sites

• Florida Forest Trees: Turkey oak (Quercus laevis)

UF/IFAS Publications

• The Value of Oaks to Wildlife
• Quercus laevis, Turkey Oak

Also on Gardening in a Minute

• Oak Trees

Other Sites

• American Turkey Oak (Quercus laevis)--University of South Carolina Longleaf Environmental Learning Center
• Turkey Oak (Quercus laevis)--Duke University's Trees, Shrubs, and Woody Vines of North Carolina
• Quercus laevis, Turkey Oak--Floridata.com
• Quercus laevis Walt., Turkey Oak--Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center