cherry-bark oak

tree

Also known as: swamp red oak

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Last updated

June 24, 2026

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Cherry-bark oak, also known as swamp red oak, is a variety of the southern red oak (Quercus falcata). It is a valuable timber and ornamental tree, typically reaching up to 36 meters (118 feet) in height. This oak species is characterized by its uniform, 5- to 11-lobed leaves, which can be up to 23 cm (9 inches) long. Its gray-brown to black, scaly bark resembles that of the black cherry tree. Cherry-bark oak belongs to the red oak subgenus (Erythrobalanus) within the genus Quercus, which are known for their bristle-tipped leaves and acorns that mature over two seasons.1

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red oak
Cherry-bark oak, or swamp red oak, a valuable timber tree also used as an ornamental, is a variety of the southern red oak. It is a larger tree, up to 36 m, with more uniform, 5- to 11-lobed leaves, often 23 cm long. The gray-brown…
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Cherry-bark oak, or swamp red oak, a valuable timber tree also used as an ornamental, is a variety of the southern red oak. It is a larger tree, up to 36 m, with more uniform, 5- to 11-lobed leaves, often 23 cm long. The gray-brown…
Read More