Invasive Plant Factsheet
This native of eastern Asia was introduced in 1862 as an ornamental and gained favor during the past 50 years as a street tree and a source of food for small game such as turkeys. Its rapid growth allows it to outcompete native oaks, and the dispersal by animals of its numerous acorns has caused it to become a problem species in forests along the east coast. Alexandria lists it invasive and Arlington designates is as a threat.
Native Alternatives
- Carya ovata (Shagbark Hickory)
- Fagus grandifolia (American Beech)
- Quercus alba (White Oak)
- Quercus phellos (Willow Oak)
- Quercus rubra (Red Oak)
Note: Click on images to see enlarged photos, captions, and photo attributions.
On a mobile phone, click on the information symbol (circle with a letter ℹ︎ symbol).
Downloadable Print Version (Legal Size):
Sawtooth Oak (Quercus acutissima)
