Northern red oak

* Common name: Northern red oak

* Botanical name: Quercus rubra

* What it is: A deciduous and fairly fast-growing native shade tree with a straight trunk and strong branching. Green leaves are lobed with pointed tips in the summer, then turn dark red in fall. Bark is dark brown and furrowed with silvery striping. Once tree matures, it’s a good acorn producer for wildlife.

* Size: 50 to 70 feet tall and wide.

* Where to use: Specimens in large, open fields and large yards. Full sun. Avoid wet clay and small yards. Keep in mind the mature size to stay well clear of overhead power lines.

* Care: Water deeply once a week in lieu of rain for the first 2 to 3 years to establish the roots, then red oak usually needs no extra water. Fertilizer also usually not needed. Remove lower limbs as the tree grows.

* Great partner: Once the canopy grows enough to provide shade, replace lawn with an underplanted groundcover of barrenwort, coralbells, liriope and/or hosta.