White Oak
Quercus alba
Deciduous TreeAbout White Oak
White Oak is one of the most majestic and long-lived trees in North America, with some specimens surviving over 600 years. Its strong, rot-resistant wood is used for barrels, flooring, and shipbuilding. As a member of the white oak group, its acorns mature in a single season and are relatively sweet, making them a vital food for wildlife.
Quick Facts
How to Identify White Oak
- Leaves with 7-9 rounded lobes (no bristle tips, unlike red oaks)
- Light gray, blocky bark that flakes in vertical scales
- Rounded acorns with warty, bowl-shaped caps
- Broad, spreading crown with thick, horizontal branches
- Purplish-red to brown fall color; some leaves persist through winter
Care Guide
- Prune in late winter to reduce risk of oak wilt infection
- Water deeply during droughts, especially when young
- Avoid soil compaction and grade changes within the drip line
- Allow ample space; white oak develops a massive, spreading crown
- Do not over-mulch or bury the root flare
Known Issues (8)
Spongy Moth (formerly Gypsy Moth)
MODERATEAn invasive moth introduced to Massachusetts in 1869. Caterpillars defoliate hundreds of tree species, preferring oaks. Repeated defoliation weakens and can kill trees, especially when combined with drought stress.
Affecting 20 regions
Oak Wilt
CRITICALA lethal fungal disease that affects all oak species, with red oaks dying within weeks of infection. It spreads through root grafts between neighboring oaks and via sap-feeding beetles. White oaks are more resistant but not immune.
Affecting 18 regions
Anthracnose
MODERATEA group of fungal diseases causing leaf spots, cankers, and shoot blight on many shade trees. Sycamore, dogwood, maple, and oak are commonly affected. Cool, wet spring weather promotes infection of newly expanding leaves.
Affecting 38 regions
Armillaria Root Rot
HIGHOne of the most widespread and destructive forest diseases in the world, caused by a complex of honey mushroom species. It attacks stressed trees through root contact and can persist in dead stumps for decades, infecting nearby healthy trees.
Affecting 36 regions
Fusiform Rust
HIGHThe most damaging disease of loblolly and slash pines in the southeastern US. It causes spindle-shaped galls on stems and branches that weaken trees and make them susceptible to wind breakage. Oaks serve as the alternate host.
Affecting 11 regions
Bacterial Leaf Scorch
HIGHA chronic bacterial disease that affects many shade tree species, particularly oaks, elms, sycamores, and maples. The bacterium is transmitted by xylem-feeding leafhoppers and spittlebugs and colonizes the water-conducting vessels, restricting water flow. Symptoms worsen each year as more of the canopy is affected. There is no cure.
Affecting 19 regions
Phytophthora Root Rot
HIGHA group of water-mold diseases that attack the roots and root collar of many tree species. Phytophthora thrives in wet, poorly drained soils. It destroys fine roots and can girdle the trunk at the soil line. Affected trees show a general decline that is often misdiagnosed as drought stress. Oaks, dogwoods, rhododendrons, and many other species are susceptible.
Affecting 31 regions
Leaf Spot Diseases
LOWA broad group of fungal diseases that cause discrete spots on the leaves of deciduous trees. Most are primarily cosmetic and do not seriously harm established trees. They are most common during wet spring and summer weather. Many different fungi cause leaf spots on different tree species.
Affecting 38 regions