Swamp Post Oak
Quercus lyrata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Quercus lyrata is a native deciduous oak tree found in wetlands across the southeastern and south-central United States. It blooms in April and May, providing important habitat for native bees and beetles.
Swamp Post Oak (Quercus lyrata) 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 Swamp Post Oak as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
360"–600" H × 240"–480" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
AL, AR, DE, FL and 15 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Swamp post oak is a large native tree that thrives in wet soils and low-lying areas. This deciduous oak produces small spring flowers followed by acorns and develops a broad, spreading canopy that provides excellent shade.
Growing Swamp Post Oak
Grow Swamp Post Oak in full sun and high water. Mature plants reach 360 to 600 inches tall and spread 240 to 480 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Swamp Post 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
- Acorn drop in fall requires cleanup
Wildlife value
The spring flowers attract bees and beetles, while the acorns feed squirrels, deer, and numerous bird species. As a native oak, it supports hundreds of caterpillar species that are crucial food sources for birds.
Common questions
- Where does Quercus lyrata naturally grow?
- Quercus lyrata is native to 21 states across the southeastern and south-central United States, including Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, Kentucky, Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Texas.
- When does Swamp Post Oak bloom?
- Quercus lyrata blooms during April and May, producing flowers that attract native pollinators including bees and beetles.
- What growing conditions does Swamp Post Oak prefer?
- This oak species thrives in full sun to partial sun conditions and requires high moisture levels, making it well-suited for wetland environments and floodplain areas.
- What pollinators visit Quercus lyrata?
- Swamp Post Oak flowers attract various native bees and beetles, which serve as important pollinators for this species.
- Is Swamp Post Oak toxic to dogs?
- Swamp Post Oak is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Swamp Post Oak toxic to cats?
- Swamp Post Oak is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is Swamp Post Oak toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Swamp Post Oak as toxic to livestock.
- Is Swamp Post Oak HOA-friendly?
- Swamp Post Oak is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate 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 Swamp Post Oak? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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