Blackjack Oak
Quercus marilandica
Last reviewed: June 2026
Blackjack Oak (Quercus marilandica) 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
full sun
Water
low
Size
240"–480" H × 240"–480" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
AL, AR, DE, FL and 22 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Blackjack oak is a medium-sized native tree with distinctive, broad three-lobed leaves that turn yellow to brown in fall. This drought-tolerant oak thrives in poor soils and full sun conditions where other trees struggle. It develops a rounded crown and provides excellent shade once established.
In an HOA neighborhood
Blackjack Oak is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, street edge, mid zone.
- Large mature size may overwhelm smaller properties
- Slow initial growth rate
Wildlife value
Host plant for hairstreak butterfly, gray hairstreak, white-m hairstreak.
Supports over 500 species of butterflies and moths as caterpillar host plant, plus provides acorns for wildlife. Spring flowers attract bees and beetles for pollination.
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 Blackjack Oak fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.