Quick answer: Chinkapin oak (Quercus muehlenbergii) is native to 30 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically seeds (acorns), verified 16 Sep 2026.
Photo: Vojtěch Zavadil, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Sun, Part Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | Medium |
| Soil | Rocky, sandy, pH above 6.0 |
| Bloom | Mar-May |
| Height | 45-110 ft |
| Wildlife value | Attracts birds/butterflies/hummingbirds, larval host for Gray Hairstreak |
Acorns and young leaves low toxicity if eaten; symptoms: stomach pain, constipation, later bloody diarrhea, excessive thirst/urination
Buying it
Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (16 Sep 2026), via Amazon.
Sold as: Seeds (acorns) via Amazon · listing verified 16 Sep 2026
See where to buy →Quick answers about Chinkapin oak
Where is Chinkapin oak native?
Chinkapin oak (Quercus muehlenbergii) is native to 30 states across the Northeast, Midwest and South. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Chinkapin oak bloom?
Chinkapin oak blooms Mar-May. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Chinkapin oak need?
Light: Sun, Part Shade. Water: Medium. Soil: Rocky, sandy, pH above 6.0. Mature height: 45-110 ft.
Is Chinkapin oak good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Attracts birds/butterflies/hummingbirds, larval host for Gray Hairstreak.
Is Chinkapin oak toxic?
Acorns and young leaves low toxicity if eaten; symptoms: stomach pain, constipation, later bloody diarrhea, excessive thirst/urination.
Where can I buy real Chinkapin oak seed or plants?
We found a listing sold as seeds (acorns) that names the true species, last checked 16 Sep 2026. Look for the scientific name Quercus muehlenbergii on any listing.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Chinkapin oak.
- Pawpaw Asimina triloba
- Common hoptree Ptelea trifoliata
- Black cherry Prunus serotina
- White ash Fraxinus americana
- Trumpet vine Campsis radicans
- Northern spicebush Lindera benzoin
Also listed under
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