Willow

Quercus phellos (Fagaceae) is a deciduous tree native to the southeastern United States from New York to Florida and west to Missouri and Texas. It grows 50 to 60 feet tall with a pyramidal to rounded crown. The narrow, willow-like leaves (2 to 5 inches, entire margins) are unique among oaks, resembling a willow more than a typical oak.

Willow oak grows in full sun on moist, acidic soil and tolerates wet conditions, clay, and seasonal flooding. It is fast growing for an oak and transplants readily. The species carries the highest documented pest and disease load in the oak collection: 27 diseases and 26 pests. Fall color is yellow to bronze. Hardy in Zones 5a to 8b.