Turkey Oak is a valuable tree for dryland and woodland landscapes. Its adaptability to poor soils and drought conditions makes it a suitable choice for low-maintenance, native landscapes. While not as large or imposing as some other oaks, its acorns provide food for wildlife, and its upright form offers a pleasant addition to naturalized areas.
 
General Information
Status in Florida: Native
Native Habitat: Sandy upland forests, dry pine woods, and scrubby areas
Native States: Southeastern United States, primarily in Florida and Georgia
Growing Zones: 8-9
Size at Maturity: 30-50 feet tall, 20-40 feet wide
Phenology: Deciduous
Life Cycle: Perennial
Growth Rate: Moderate
Growth Habit: Upright, spreading crown
Bloom Season: Spring
Bloom Color: Greenish, inconspicuous flowers
 
Growth Conditions
Sunlight Requirements: Full sun
Soil Texture: Well-drained, sandy to loamy soils
Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral
Moisture Requirements: Dry to average moisture
Tolerance to Salt Spray: Low
Keystone Plant: No
 
Landscape Considerations
Recommended Landscape Uses: Shade tree, woodland garden, native plantings, dryland landscapes
Maintenance Tips: Prune to remove dead or damaged wood; avoid excessive irrigation once established
Considerations: Tolerates poor, dry soils but is not salt-tolerant; avoid planting in coastal areas
Hurricane Wind Resistant: Yes
Erosion Control: Yes
Nitrogen Fixing: No
 
Other Information
Edible: No
Pet Safe: Yes
Deer and Rabbit Resistance: Yes
Historical Medicinal Uses: Not commonly used for medicinal purposes
Florida Native Companion Plant: Sandhill Crane Wildflower (Silphium species), Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens), Southern Blueberry (Vaccinium species)
Wildlife Benefit: Provides acorns for wildlife, including squirrels, deer, and birds
Caterpillar Host Plant: Yes, for various moths and butterflies, including the Wavy-lined Heterocampa
Propagation: Seed