Quick answer: Black oak (Quercus velutina) is native to 30 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically live plant, verified 16 Sep 2026.
Photo: Willow, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.5)
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 | Dry, sandy to moist, rich |
| Bloom | Mar-May |
| Height | 50-80 ft |
| Wildlife value | Attracts songbirds/ground birds/mammals/butterflies/hummingbirds, larval host for Edwards Hairstreak |
Acorns and young leaves low toxicity if eaten; symptoms: stomach pain, constipation, bloody diarrhea, excessive thirst/urination
none noted; prone to structural damage/decay, susceptible to oak wilt
Buying it
Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (16 Sep 2026), via Amazon.
Sold as: Live plant via Amazon · listing verified 16 Sep 2026
See where to buy →Quick answers about Black oak
Where is Black oak native?
Black oak (Quercus velutina) 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 Black oak bloom?
Black oak blooms Mar-May. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Black oak need?
Light: Sun, Part Shade. Water: Medium. Soil: Dry, sandy to moist, rich. Mature height: 50-80 ft.
Is Black oak good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Attracts songbirds/ground birds/mammals/butterflies/hummingbirds, larval host for Edwards Hairstreak.
Is Black oak toxic?
Acorns and young leaves low toxicity if eaten; symptoms: stomach pain, constipation, bloody diarrhea, excessive thirst/urination.
Where can I buy real Black oak seed or plants?
We found a listing sold as live plant that names the true species, last checked 16 Sep 2026. Look for the scientific name Quercus velutina on any listing.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Black oak.
- Slippery elm Ulmus rubra
- American elm Ulmus americana
- Flowering dogwood Cornus florida
- Northern spicebush Lindera benzoin
- American holly Ilex opaca
- Black cherry Prunus serotina
Also listed under
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