Overcup Oak
Quercus lyratafam. Fagaceae
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Pl. 448B — Quercus lyrata
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IOverview
Overview
The Overcup Oak (Quercus lyrata) is a deciduous tree native to the southeastern United States, ranging from California eastward through Alabama and Georgia. This oak thrives in moist environments with medium to heavy clay soils and prefers full sun to partial shade. Known for its distinctive deeply lobed leaves resembling a lyre, it can grow up to 30 meters tall. Overcup Oak is both edible and medicinal; its acorns are valuable as a food source, while various parts of the tree have been used in traditional medicine. Its adaptability makes it an interesting addition to gardens or natural landscapes where these conditions prevail.
Quick answers
What is Overcup Oak?
The Overcup Oak (Quercus lyrata) is a deciduous tree native to the southeastern United States, ranging from California eastward through Alabama and Georgia. This oak thrives in moist environments with medium to heavy clay soils and prefers full sun to partial shade.
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.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Overcup Oak thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist, medium to heavy clay soils. It is hardy in zones 5-9 and can grow up to 30 meters tall. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently moist but well-draining to prevent root rot. Propagation is best done through seed. While it is native to California and several southeastern states, this oak is adaptable and can be grown in similar conditions elsewhere.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-9
Mature size
30.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Overcup Oak for the first time
8steps
Start with planting an Overcup Oak sapling for a rewarding beginner project.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Overcup Oak sapling, well-draining soil, and a large container or enough space in the ground.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when temperatures are mild but not too hot.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is moist and rich with organic matter. For containers, use a mix of medium and heavy clay soils.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant the sapling carefully, ensuring not to damage the roots.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for signs of stress or pests.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun to partial shade and regular watering until established. Prune lightly if needed.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Focus on pruning during the dormant season to maintain shape and health.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in too sunny a spot, neglecting to prune properly, using inappropriate soil types, and not providing enough space for growth.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Seed
Edible uses: Coffee
Other uses:TanninLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
20 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
20 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 20 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Georgia
Broader regions
native:California, Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, New Jersey, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia
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.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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