Scarlet Oak

Aptly named, the scarlet oak is a parade of red throughout the seasons. In the early spring, new leaves unfurl with a red hue. The vibrant red fall display is truly magnificent. And those red leaves often hangs on through the first snow, giving winter a touch of much-needed color. The inner bark of the scarlet oak is even red.

This tree is a very popular landscape choice for more than vivid color, however. Tolerance for poor soils and wind resistance combine with its beauty to make the scarlet oak a widely used species throughout parks, in large yards and along streets. Perhaps these are also the reasons why it has the honor of being the official tree of District of Columbia.