Ramsey County

Bur Oak

ND Tree Handbook

ND Tree Handbook

Bur Oak is native to North Dakota except for the northwest corner of the state.  Bur Oak can grow very large under normal conditions (up to 75-80 feet tall) but can be stunted by dry conditions.  (See Illustration)  Bur Oak is a very poor candidate for transplanting as it has a very long taproot.  The leaves generally 4-8 inches in length and turn a light brown or yellow during the fall season.  (See Illustration)  Bur Oak is also known for its acorns.  (See Illustration)  Because the root system grows very deep and wide (twice the tree height) it becomes very sensitive to transplanting and construction.  Common disease of oak is leaf and twig anthracnose.

Cold Hardiness zone 2

Bill Hodous, Extension Agent/Ramsey County
524 4th Ave NE #5, 2nd Floor Ramsey County Courthouse
Devils Lake  ND  58301
701-662-7027
email - ramsey@ndsuext.nodak.edu