Shingle Oak
Quercus imbricaria
Last reviewed: June 2026
Shingle Oak is a deciduous tree native to eastern and central United States, blooming in April and May. This adaptable oak species tolerates various growing conditions and supports bees and beetles as pollinators.
Shingle Oak (Quercus imbricaria) 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 Shingle Oak as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
360"–720" H × 240"–480" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
AL, AR, DE, IA and 18 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Shingle oak is a medium to large native tree with glossy, oblong leaves that turn yellow to brown in fall. It grows 30-60 feet tall with a rounded crown and smooth bark, making it an excellent shade tree for larger properties.
Growing Shingle Oak
Grow Shingle Oak in full sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 360 to 720 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
Shingle 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 requires adequate space
- Acorn drop may need periodic cleanup
Wildlife value
This oak supports bees and beetles during its spring bloom period. Like other oaks, it provides food for wildlife through its acorns and serves as a host plant for numerous butterfly and moth species.
Common questions
- Where is Shingle Oak native to?
- Shingle Oak is native to 22 states across the eastern and central United States, including Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Missouri, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and West Virginia.
- When does Shingle Oak bloom?
- Shingle Oak blooms in April and May, producing inconspicuous flowers that are wind-pollinated.
- What pollinators visit Shingle Oak?
- Shingle Oak attracts bees and beetles, which visit the tree during its blooming period in spring.
- What growing conditions does Shingle Oak prefer?
- Shingle Oak grows best in full sun but tolerates partial sun. It adapts to a wide range of moisture conditions from wet to dry soils, making it quite versatile in landscape applications.
- Is Shingle Oak toxic to dogs?
- Shingle Oak is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Shingle Oak toxic to cats?
- Shingle Oak is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is Shingle Oak toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Shingle Oak as toxic to livestock.
- Is Shingle Oak HOA-friendly?
- Shingle 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 Shingle 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