Basket Oak
Quercus michauxii
Last reviewed: June 2026
Basket Oak (Quercus michauxii) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org, last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
480"–960" H × 360"–720" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
AL, AR, DE, FL and 15 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Basket oak is a large, stately deciduous tree native to wetland areas of the southeastern United States. It develops a broad, rounded crown and can reach 40 to 80 feet tall with an impressive spread. This oak produces spring flowers followed by acorns and displays attractive fall color.
In an HOA neighborhood
Basket Oak is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, mid zone, street edge.
- Very large mature size requires adequate space
- Acorn drop may require seasonal cleanup
Wildlife value
Host plant for hairstreak butterflies, luna moth.
The spring flowers attract bees and beetles for pollination. As an oak species, it supports hundreds of native caterpillar species and provides acorns for wildlife.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Basket Oak fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.