Chestnut Oak
Quercus montana
Last reviewed: June 2026
Chestnut Oak (Quercus montana) 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
480"–960" H × 360"–720" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
AL, CT, DE, GA and 21 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles, wasps
Chestnut oak is a large native tree with distinctive rounded, scalloped leaves and deeply furrowed bark. It produces acorns in fall and displays attractive yellow-brown autumn color before dropping its leaves.
In an HOA neighborhood
Chestnut Oak is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, mid zone, backyard only.
- Large mature size requires adequate space
- Acorn drop may need seasonal cleanup
Wildlife value
Host plant for brown-tail moth, gypsy moth, winter moth, polyphemus moth.
Supports over 500 species of butterflies and moths as caterpillar host plant, while acorns feed squirrels, deer, and many bird species. Spring flowers attract bees, beetles, and wasps 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 Chestnut Oak fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.