Bur Oak

Bur Oak (Quercus macrocarpa)

Ultra Hardy Long-Lived Shade Tree for Ontario and Eastern Canada (Zones 2–7)

Quick Expert Summary

The Bur Oak (Quercus macrocarpa) is a moderate-growing, extremely cold-hardy tree ideal for Ontario and Eastern Canada (Zones 2–7). It typically grows slowly and reaches about 100-115 ft (30-35 m) at maturity with an equally broad spread. Best for large landscapes, shade, and naturalization, it offers massive acorns and rugged bark character along with exceptional tolerance to harsh soils, pollution, and urban stress.

Why Choose Bur Oak for Ontario and Eastern Canada?

One of the toughest native oaks available—perfect for cold climates, poor soils, and long-term landscape value.

• Hardiness: Zone 2 (Ideal for Ontario and Eastern Canada Zones 2–7)
• Growth Rate: Slow
• Best For: Shade, large landscapes, naturalization
• Maintenance: Low once established
• Key Feature: Large acorns and extreme durability
• Native / Non-native: Native to Québec and across Canada

It adapts well to:

• Deep, fresh soils
• Sandy soils
• Wide pH range (acidic to alkaline)
• Urban and rural environments
• Wind, pollution, and road salt

Tree Specifications

Is Bur Oak Right for Your Yard?

Choose Bur Oak if:

• You want a legacy tree that will last generations
• You have a large yard or rural property
• You live in Zone 2–7
• You want a rugged, low-maintenance native tree
• You need a tree for difficult or poor soils

Not ideal if:

• Your yard is small
• You want fast shade quickly
• You are planting too close to buildings or infrastructure
• You need an easy transplant tree (deep roots make planting harder)

Best Uses

• Backyard shade
• Naturalization projects
• Large parks
• Wind-resistant planting
• Wildlife habitat

Why it works: Bur Oak develops a massive, open crown and produces large acorns that feed wildlife. Its deep root system and tolerance to stress make it one of the most resilient native trees available.

What Makes Bur Oak Special?

A legendary North American oak known for its strength, longevity, and adaptability.

• Spring: Greenish catkins appear
• Summer: Dark green leaves with pale undersides create light shade
• Fall: Yellow-orange foliage with large acorns
• Winter: Thick, deeply fissured bark and strong branching structure

Winter Survival in Ontario and Eastern Canada

Yes, Bur Oak is extremely hardy in Ontario and Eastern Canada Zones 2–7 and withstands harsh winters, wind, and snow load.

First-year tip:

• Add 2–3 inches of mulch
• Water deeply before the first hard frost
• Plant balled-and-burlapped trees for best success

Planting Guide for Ontario and Eastern Canada

Best planting time:

• Spring (recommended)
• Early fall

Spacing:

• 25–30 ft from foundations
• 30–40 ft between trees

Watering (first year):

• Water deeply once per week
• Maintain consistent soil moisture

Quick Answers (FAQ)

How fast does Bur Oak grow in Ontario?
It is a slow-growing tree. It grows typically 1-2 ft per year.

Is it cold hardy in Ontario?
Yes. Hardy to Zone 2 and well adapted to Zones 2–7.

Does it need another tree for pollination?
No. It produces acorns naturally without needing another tree.

Are the roots invasive?
No, but they are deep and powerful—plant well away from structures.

Is it messy?
Moderate—acorns and leaves drop seasonally.

Compare With Similar Trees

Shipping Across Quebec, Ontario and Atlantic Provinces

• Nursery-grown
• Carefully packaged
• Shipped to your door in Quebec, Ontario and Atlantic Provinces
• Healthy root system guarantee

Explore Related Collections

• Shade Trees
• Native Trees
• Zone 2 Trees
• Oak Trees

Related articles:

• Best Trees for Cold Climates in Canada
• How to Plant Large Oaks Successfully