Quercus rubra Aurea

Quercus rubra Aurea is a variety of American red oak with golden foliage. It forms a semi-deciduous tree of smaller dimensions than the species with a rather slow growth. It reaches a height of about 15m at maturity. Its large leaves bud in spring with a bright golden colour before turning yellow-green in summer. In autumn, they turn orange-red to scarlet. This variety appreciates a sunny exposure that enhances its golden colour. As a red oak, it is sensitive to the presence of limestone in the soil, so it should be planted in neutral to acidic soil. It tolerates urban pollution.

Quercus rubra belongs to the beech family. Originally from the eastern part of North America, it was introduced to Europe as early as 1724 to repopulate forests, as its record growth (between 20 and 30 metres in height at maturity) made it more attractive than European oak at that time. However, this botanical champion also has a classic beauty. It has a symmetrical pyramidal habit, a straight trunk, a well-developed crown, and upright massive branches that are covered with large leaves measuring between 12 and 22 cm long. It also offers an unprecedented colour spectacle that resonates with warm tones (vermilion: autumn foliage, reddish-brown: branch wood, acorns, and small female flowers in April-May) and muted tones (mouse grey bark).

Aurea distinguishes itself from the species with its superb golden colour in spring, a more modest development, and slow growth. It reaches a height of 15m at maturity with a width of 10m. Its large leaves bud in spring with a golden yellow colour before turning yellow-green in summer and then crimson red in autumn. Its spread-out oval crown rounds out later. Its grey bark remains smooth for a long time.

With great hardiness, at least down to -40°C, the American red oak Aurea thrives in all types of soil, even clayey, as long as it is deep. It does not tolerate limestone soil, but instead needs neutral to acidic soil. It is resistant to drought, and its golden foliage is even more vibrant when exposed to the sun. It grows better sheltered from strong winds. Plant this characterful tree in isolation or combine it with other deciduous trees (maple, ash, lime), and with small flowering shrubs and perennial woodland plants. We recommend acid-loving shrubs and perennials such as Camellias, Chinese Azaleas, Pieris, Daphnes, Kalmias, Hydrangeas, Kirengeshoma palmata, or Foxgloves.