Cherrybark Oak
Quercus pagoda
Last reviewed: June 2026
Cherrybark Oak (Quercus pagoda) is a native deciduous tree found across the southeastern and south-central United States. This oak species blooms in March and April, providing important habitat for native bees and beetles.
Cherrybark Oak (Quercus pagoda) 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 Cherrybark Oak as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
480"–960" H × 360"–600" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr
Native to
AL, AR, FL, GA and 13 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Cherrybark oak is a large, stately native tree with distinctive ridged bark and glossy green leaves that turn yellow to orange in fall. This fast-growing oak develops a broad, rounded crown and is valued for its impressive size and classic tree form.
Growing Cherrybark Oak
Grow Cherrybark Oak in full sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 480 to 960 inches tall and spread 360 to 600 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Cherrybark Oak is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, street edge, mid zone.
- Very large mature size requires adequate space
- Acorns may require periodic cleanup
Wildlife value
Host plant for Southern Hairstreak, Red-spotted Purple.
Supports numerous pollinators including native bees and beetles during spring blooming. The acorns provide food for wildlife, and the large canopy offers nesting sites for birds.
Common questions
- Where is Cherrybark Oak native to?
- Cherrybark Oak is native to 18 states across the southeastern and south-central United States, including Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia.
- When does Cherrybark Oak bloom?
- Cherrybark Oak produces flowers in March and April, blooming before the leaves fully emerge in spring.
- What pollinators visit Cherrybark Oak?
- Cherrybark Oak flowers attract various native bees and beetles, which help pollinate the tree during its spring blooming period.
- What growing conditions does Cherrybark Oak prefer?
- This oak species thrives in full sun locations with medium to high moisture levels, commonly found in bottomland forests and along waterways in its native range.
- Is Cherrybark Oak toxic to dogs?
- Cherrybark Oak is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Cherrybark Oak toxic to cats?
- Cherrybark Oak is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is Cherrybark Oak toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Cherrybark Oak as toxic to livestock.
- Is Cherrybark Oak HOA-friendly?
- Cherrybark 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 Cherrybark 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