Mortellaro's Nursery
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Oak, Bur
Oak, Burr
Quercus macrocarpa
Bur Oak is a large, long-lived oak native to much of North America and found naturally in parts of North and Central Texas. It is well known for its massive acorns with fringed caps and its thick, deeply furrowed bark. In Texas landscapes, it is valued as a durable, adaptable shade tree capable of handling a wide range of soil conditions, including heavier clays and alkaline soils common throughout Central Texas.
This oak thrives in full sun and tolerates both drought and periodic wet conditions once established, making it one of the more soil-flexible large oaks. It adapts to alkaline limestone soils better than many Red Oaks and is often recommended where soil conditions are challenging. It is not considered toxic, though, like other oaks, excessive acorn consumption may affect livestock. Deer may browse young trees during establishment. Mature size typically reaches 60–80 feet tall and 50–60 feet wide, developing a broad, rounded canopy. Spacing 40–60 feet apart allows proper canopy development in larger landscapes.
Bur Oak is best suited for large residential properties, parks, ranch land, and commercial sites where a substantial shade tree is desired. It develops a strong central leader when trained properly and becomes a commanding, legacy tree over time. Fall color is generally yellow to yellow-brown in Texas, though it is grown more for structure and longevity than for vibrant autumn color.
Oak Wilt Awareness:
Oak wilt is a serious concern in Central Texas. All oaks can be affected, though susceptibility varies by species. To reduce risk, avoid planting new oaks close to existing mature oaks where root systems may eventually connect. Never prune oaks during high-risk periods (generally February through June), as fresh cuts attract sap beetles that spread the disease. Many Texas municipalities enforce seasonal oak pruning restrictions, and in some areas pruning oaks during certain months is prohibited by ordinance. Always seal any necessary pruning cuts immediately with paint to help prevent infection.
Oak Wilt Groups :
Red Oak Group - Most susceptible; often fatal quickly
Live Oaks - Highly susceptible; spreads aggressively through root grafts
White Oak Group - More resistant; typically least severe
Burr Oak (Quercus macrocarpa) belongs to the White Oaks group
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Massive acorns |
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Tough shade tree |
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Long lived |
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Height:60-80 Feet |
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Spread:50-60 Feet |
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Spacing:40-60 ft |
USDA Hardiness Zone 2a
Available Sizes:
| Item | Description | |
| OAK-BUR-30 | #030 OAK, BURR |
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| OAK-BUR-45 | #045 OAK, BURR |
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| OAK-BUR-95 | #095 OAK, BURR |
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| OAK-BUR-200 | #200 OAK, BURR |
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Characteristics & Attributes
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Deer Tolerance
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Exposure
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Habit
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Soil pH Preference
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Water Needs
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Texas Native
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Tolerates Poor Drainage
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