Blackjack Oak
Quercus marilandica
Last reviewed: June 2026
Blackjack Oak is a drought-tolerant native tree found across the southeastern and south-central United States. This hardy oak blooms in April and May, providing important habitat for native bees and beetles.
Blackjack Oak (Quercus marilandica) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org (opens in new tab), last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Blackjack Oak as toxic to livestock.
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.
Growing Blackjack Oak
Grow Blackjack Oak in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 240 to 480 inches tall and spread 240 to 480 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
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.
Common questions
- Where does Blackjack Oak naturally grow?
- Blackjack Oak is native to 27 states across the southeastern, south-central, and parts of the northeastern United States, including Texas, Florida, Georgia, Missouri, and many others.
- When does Blackjack Oak bloom?
- Blackjack Oak produces flowers in April and May, with inconspicuous wind-pollinated blooms that are important for native pollinators.
- What pollinators visit Blackjack Oak?
- Native bees and beetles are the primary pollinators of Blackjack Oak, though the flowers are primarily wind-pollinated.
- How much water does Blackjack Oak need?
- Blackjack Oak is highly drought-tolerant and thrives in dry conditions, making it well-suited for xeriscaping and low-water gardens.
- Is Blackjack Oak toxic to dogs?
- Blackjack Oak is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Blackjack Oak toxic to cats?
- Blackjack Oak is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is Blackjack Oak toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Blackjack Oak as toxic to livestock.
- Is Blackjack Oak HOA-friendly?
- Blackjack Oak is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
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.
Ready to grow Blackjack Oak? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz