Pin Oak
Quercus palustris
Last reviewed: June 2026
Pin Oak (Quercus palustris) 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
medium
Size
360"–720" H × 360"–600" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 22 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Pin oak is a large shade tree with distinctive deeply lobed leaves and a pyramidal shape when young, maturing to a more oval crown. It develops attractive fall color ranging from bronze to red and produces small acorns. This fast-growing oak adapts well to urban conditions and wet soils.
In an HOA neighborhood
Pin Oak is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, street edge, mid zone.
- Very large mature size may overwhelm smaller properties
- Acorns and leaves create seasonal cleanup needs
Wildlife value
Host plant for banded hairstreak, imperial moth.
Pin oak supports over 500 species of butterflies and moths as caterpillars feed on the leaves. The acorns provide food for squirrels, deer, and many bird species including woodpeckers and jays.
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 Pin Oak fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.