Scarlet Oak
Quercus coccinea
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Pl. 157F — Quercus coccinea
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IOverview
Overview
Scarlet Oak (Quercus coccinea) is a deciduous tree native to the eastern United States, ranging from Alabama and Arkansas to Maine and Wisconsin. Known for its vibrant red autumn foliage, this oak species thrives in moist, medium to heavy clay soils with a pH between 4.5 and 6.9. It grows up to 25 meters tall and is valued not only for its ornamental beauty but also for its edible acorns, which are suitable for consumption after processing. Found naturally in states like Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, and the District of Columbia, Scarlet Oak contributes to diverse forest ecosystems while providing a valuable resource for those interested in sustainable food sources.
Quick answers
What is Scarlet Oak?
Scarlet Oak (Quercus coccinea) is a deciduous tree native to the eastern United States, ranging from Alabama and Arkansas to Maine and Wisconsin. Known for its vibrant red autumn foliage, this oak species thrives in moist, medium to heavy clay soils with a pH between 4.
What is Scarlet Oak used for?
Traditionally used for immune support, digestion. Each claim is evidence-rated — see Section II for full citations.
Best for
Top 2 evidence-ranked uses of Scarlet Oak
Clinicaluses · safety · chemistry · dosagemedicinal profile
IIBenefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources
Benefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources- Scarlet Oak, like other oak species, has been traditionally used in Native American medicine to support immune health. A decoction made from acorns or bark may help bolster the body's defenses against seasonal ailments.
Oak contains tannins and flavonoids that have antimicrobial properties, potentially supporting immune function by inhibiting pathogen growth.
- Scarlet Oak has been traditionally used in herbal medicine to aid digestion. A decoction made from the bark or acorns may help soothe digestive discomfort.
The tannins and other polyphenols found in Scarlet Oak can have astringent effects, potentially helping to reduce inflammation and irritation in the gastrointestinal tract.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Scarlet Oak support blend
generaltea
AI returned a direct ingredient list; normalized into one draft blend for editorial review.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Scarlet Oak thrives in moist to well-drained soils that are medium or heavy (clay). It prefers a pH range of 4.5 to 6.9 and is hardy in zones 4-8. This tree requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth, though it can tolerate various light conditions. For propagation, seeds should be collected and planted directly in the ground or stratified before sowing. Scarlet Oak grows up to 25 meters tall and is native to a wide range of eastern North American states. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged for best results.
Light
7/10
Water
Moist
Soil
Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Habit
Tree
Mature size
25.0 m tall
Soil pH
4.5–6.9
For first-time growers
How to grow Scarlet Oak for the first time
8steps
Start with planting a young Scarlet Oak tree for the best beginner experience.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Scarlet Oak sapling, garden gloves, and a shovel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring or fall when temperatures are mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is moist, with a pH between 4.5 and 6.9, and well-draining.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant the sapling to a prepared hole that's twice as wide but not deeper than its root ball.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water deeply once a week during dry spells and mulch around the base for moisture retention.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter before new growth starts. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting to mulch, and not providing enough space for the tree's eventual size.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Seed
Edible uses: Coffee
Other uses:TanninLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
29 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
29 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 29 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Georgia
Broader regions
native:Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode I., South Carolina, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Massachusetts, Masachusettes
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family, common use cases, and growing requirements.
shared use cases
Different families, similar therapeutic role — good for comparing.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Health goals
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
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- Citation
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