Black Oak
Quercus emoryifam. Fagaceae
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Pl. D9B9 — Quercus emoryi
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IOverview
Overview
Black Oak (Quercus emoryi) is a deciduous tree native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, medium to heavy clay soils. Hardy from zones 6-9, this oak can grow up to 12 meters tall. Known for its edible acorns, Black Oak is an important resource for wildlife and has been used by indigenous peoples for food. One distinctive feature of the tree is its dark, almost black bark, which contrasts with its bright green foliage in spring and summer.
Quick answers
What is Black Oak?
Black Oak (Quercus emoryi) is a deciduous tree native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, medium to heavy clay soils. Hardy from zones 6-9, this oak can grow up to 12 meters tall.
What is Black Oak used for?
Traditionally used for digestion. Each claim is evidence-rated — see Section II for full citations.
Best for
Top 1 evidence-ranked use of Black Oak
Clinicaluses · safety · chemistry · dosagemedicinal profile
IIBenefits & evidence
1 claim · 0 sources
Benefits & evidence
1 claim · 0 sources- Black Oak bark has been traditionally used in Native American medicine to aid digestion and relieve gastrointestinal discomfort. A decoction of the bark may help soothe an upset stomach.
Tannins present in Black Oak have astringent properties that can help reduce inflammation and irritation in the digestive tract, promoting comfort and aiding digestion.
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.
Black Oak support blend
generaltea
AI returned a direct ingredient list; normalized into one draft blend for editorial review.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Black Oak (Quercus emoryi) thrives in full to partial sun and requires moist soil that can be medium or heavy clay. It is hardy in zones 6-9 and grows up to 12 meters tall. For propagation, seeds are the preferred method. Ensure the planting site provides adequate moisture and well-draining conditions to support healthy growth.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
6-9
Mature size
12.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Black Oak for the first time
8steps
Start with planting a Black Oak sapling for the best beginner experience.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Black Oak sapling, well-draining soil, and a large container or enough space in your garden.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring when the ground is moist but not waterlogged.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining with some organic matter mixed in. For containers, use a pot at least 30 cm wide and deep.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant the sapling to its permanent spot or a large container if you're growing it indoors.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not soggy. Avoid direct sunlight for the first few days.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun to partial shade and water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Fertilize sparingly in spring.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune young trees to shape them, removing weak branches and crossing limbs. Mature trees do not require regular harvesting.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, and lack of proper pruning are common issues beginners face.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Seed
Edible uses: Coffee
Other uses:Animal feedFire starterTanninLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
5 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
5 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 5 native
Broader regions
native:Mexico Northeast, Mexico Northwest, New Mexico, Texas, Arizona
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 (Fagaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Fagaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
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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