Quercus, robur, Skinny Genes - #10

Size: Medium deciduous tree, typically 40-50 feet tall and 8-15 feet wide at maturity (very narrow, columnar to fastigiate form).

Branches: Strongly upright and ascending, forming a tight, densely columnar structure with a strong central leader for a slender, vertical silhouette.

Leaves: Glossy, very dark green, lobed (hybrid English oak shape), mildew-resistant, providing a clean, dense summer appearance.

Flowers: Produces insignificant catkins in spring.

Bark: Grayish to dark brown, developing furrowed texture with age.

Habitat:

Highly sought after for its exceptionally narrow, columnar habit (one of the slimmest oaks available), mildew resistance, and adaptability, commonly used as a street tree, in tight urban spaces, privacy screens, formal alleys, or as a vertical accent in landscapes and parks, where it offers a striking architectural presence, wildlife value via acorns, and reliable performance in urban or challenging conditions.

**Tree arrives dormant in 10-gallon pot**

Tree Care:

Planting: Well-draining soil preferred, but highly adaptable; full sun, proper spacing (at least 8-15 feet for mature width).

Soil: Tolerates a wide range including clay, loam, and urban soils; prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH, amend with organic matter if needed; adaptable to moist or occasionally dry sites.

Watering: Keep soil consistently moist during establishment; drought tolerant once established, but performs best with moderate moisture—tolerates wet or dry periods moderately well.

Fertilizing: Apply balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.

Pruning: Prune minimally in late winter to remove dead wood or maintain form; its natural tight columnar habit requires little shaping.

Pest and Disease Control: Monitor for issues like oak wilt, borers, or scale and apply controls if necessary; foliage is mildew-resistant and generally tough/low-maintenance.

Mulching: Use mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds, keeping it away from the trunk.

Foliage: Known for its ultra-narrow, fastigiate form with glossy very dark green summer leaves that turn bright yellow to golden-yellow (sometimes with orange tones) in fall, delivering clean vertical drama, reliable seasonal color, and a space-saving alternative to broader oaks in modern, urban, or small-space landscapes.