Bur Oak
Quercus macrocarpa
Last reviewed: June 2026
Bur Oak (Quercus macrocarpa) 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
600"–900" H × 600"–900" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AL, AR, CT, IA and 27 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Bur oak is a massive, long-lived native tree that develops a broad, rounded crown and deeply ridged bark. This slow-growing oak is extremely drought tolerant once established and can live for centuries. It produces large acorns with distinctive fringed caps that are prized by wildlife.
In an HOA neighborhood
Bur Oak is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, street edge, mid zone.
- Extremely large mature size requires ample space
- Acorn drop in fall may need cleanup
Wildlife value
Host plant for banded hairstreak, white-marked tussock moth.
Supports over 500 species of butterflies and moths as caterpillar host plant, plus provides acorns for squirrels, chipmunks, and birds. The flowers attract native bees and beetles in late spring.
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 Bur Oak fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.