- Cherrybark oak trees are impressive, ranging in height from 30 feet to more than 100 hundred feet tall at maturity. They have glossy, deep green leaves in the traditional oak-leaf shape. The bark of this tree is dark gray in color and deeply lined. In the fall, 1/2- to 3/4-inch acorns are produced. These supply food to a variety of wildlife, including deer, wild birds, raccoons and squirrels. Cherrybark oaks can be used as specimen plantings or as a background for other landscape features.
- Cherrybark oak trees do well in full or partial sun. They aren't picky about soil type, but they do require effective drainage. Very moist soils can lead to fungal disease, but excessively dry conditions can also cause problems. A location that maintains even moisture year-round encourages good health and reduces the risk of insect infestation and disease. A layer of mulch applied under the tree protects the roots and keeps weeds from growing.
- The trees should be watered when less than an inch of rain falls in a week during the first growing season. This encourages deep, healthy root growth. Supplemental watering is only required during very dry conditions after the roots are established. Pruning to shape is not necessary, but you should eliminate any spindly, damaged and dead branches each year during the early summer. Fertilizer is not needed unless growth slows or the tree is diseased.
- Cherrybark oaks are susceptible to a host of insects and diseases. Boring insects are one of the most common pests and can cause considerable damage. Oak worm, Colombian timber beetles and scale all cause problems with cherrybark oak trees. A variety of cankers and fungal diseases also affect these trees. Since the possibilities are so numerous, it's best to consult an expert in your local extension office for diagnosis and treatment advice.
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