Burr Oak
Quercus macrocarpa
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Pl. 3C50 — Quercus macrocarpa
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IOverview
Overview
The Burr Oak (Quercus macrocarpa) is a large deciduous tree native to the eastern and central United States, as well as parts of Canada. Known for its robust form and distinctive burr-like acorns, this oak species thrives in various habitats including dry and moist soils. It grows best in full sun to partial shade and can reach heights of 15 meters with a spread of up to 27 meters. Native to Alabama, Alberta, Arkansas, Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, and other regions, the Burr Oak is valued for its edible acorns, which are enjoyed by wildlife and sometimes used in human cuisine. Its hardiness spans zones 3-8, making it adaptable to a range of climates.
Quick answers
What is Burr Oak?
The Burr Oak (Quercus macrocarpa) is a large deciduous tree native to the eastern and central United States, as well as parts of Canada. Known for its robust form and distinctive burr-like acorns, this oak species thrives in various habitats including dry and moist soils.
What is Burr 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 Burr Oak
Clinicaluses · safety · chemistry · dosagemedicinal profile
IIBenefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources
Benefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources- Burr Oak, like other oak species, has been traditionally used in Native American medicine to support immune health. A decoction made from the bark or acorns may help bolster the body's defenses against common ailments.
The tannins and flavonoids found in Burr Oak have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can modulate immune responses, though the specific mechanisms are not fully characterised.
- Burr Oak has been traditionally used in Native American medicine to aid digestion. A decoction made from the bark or acorns may help alleviate digestive discomfort and promote healthy gut function.
The tannins present in Burr Oak have astringent properties that can help soothe the gastrointestinal tract, though the specific mechanisms are not fully characterised.
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.
Burr Oak support blend
generaltea
AI returned a direct ingredient list; normalized into one draft blend for editorial review.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
The Burr Oak thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist but well-draining soil that can be medium or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 3-8, making it adaptable to various climates within its native range. This oak requires minimal watering once established, though it benefits from regular moisture during dry periods. For propagation, seeds are the preferred method; simply plant them in a well-prepared site with rich soil and plenty of space for their expansive growth.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
3-8
Mature size
15.0 m × 27 m
For first-time growers
How to grow Burr Oak for the first time
7steps
Start with planting a young Burr Oak tree for the best beginner experience.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Burr Oak sapling, garden gloves, and a shovel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late fall when temperatures are cooler.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a well-draining spot with rich, medium to heavy soil. Ensure the area gets full sun to partial shade.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Dig a hole twice as wide but not deeper than the root ball of your sapling. Place it in the center and backfill with native soil.
- 5
First two weeks
Water thoroughly after planting, then keep the soil moist but not waterlogged for the first few weeks.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water deeply once a week during dry spells. Fertilize sparingly in early spring with a balanced organic fertilizer.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead, diseased, or crossing branches as needed to maintain the tree's health and shape.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Seed
Edible uses: The Burr Oak's seeds are edible and can be eaten raw or roasted. They are often used in cooking, providing a nutty flavor to dishes. Skip the shell before consuming for easier digestion.
Other uses:MordantTanninLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 30 native
Broader regions
native:Massachusetts, Alberta, Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Manitoba, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Brunswick, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Québec, Saskatchewan, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, 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, common use cases, and growing requirements.
shared use cases
Different families, similar therapeutic role — good for comparing.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
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