Overcup Oak Tree

Light Needs

Part Shade to Full Sun

(3+ Hours Direct Sun)

Mature Height

35-60 Feet

Mature Spread

35-60 Feet

Growing Zones

5 to 9

Overcup Oak is a deciduous tree commonly found along coastal and other waterways in the central and southwest United States. The name Overcup comes from the look of the tree's acorn. The rough burr or husk covers over 2/3 of the nut, making it more buoyant and durable if it drops during periods of flooding. Quercus lyrata reaches a moderate height of 30-60 feet, which works well in suburban backyards and other smaller garden locations. It tolerates seasonal flooding and boggy soils, making it a good choice for challenging locations.  

The deciduous foliage turns shades of yellow, orange, and tan during autumn, often holding on the branches for weeks longer than other trees. Like all oak trees, Overcup is a keystone plant and offers valuable food and shelter to a wide variety of pollinators, birds, and mammals. While this tree can be mildly damaged by deer or other large animals, the real value for Overcup Oak is its incredible resistance to Oak Wilt disease, which has decimated oaks in urban and rural areas. 

Overcup Oak Care

Take into account the mature height and spread of Overcup Oak when siting this tree. The mature canopy can spread up to 60 feet, so place this Oak at least 20 feet from any building or overhead utility lines. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral, well-draining soil. When planting, place the root flare just at or slightly above the soil level, and do not allow mulch to rest against the trunk. Regular watering is required for the first few years until the tree is well established. Provide about one inch of water, either through natural precipitation or supplemental watering. 

Pruning is minimal for Overcup Oak. When the tree is young, prune out crossing branches or branches that bend down to maintain an open shape while allowing the main central leader to become dominant in the structure. Make sure the branches are well distributed around the tree to promote an even and balanced shape. Even though Overcup Oak is resistant to oak wilt, the best time to prune is in late winter or early spring while the insects carrying the disease are not active.  

Overcup Oak can take up to 30 years to produce a crop of acorns. If there is room in your landscape, planting a compatible oak variety may help to improve yearly pollination and the fruiting ability of Overcup Oak. White Oak, Sawtooth Oak, and Swamp Chestnut Oak are recommended pollinator partners. 

Overcup Oak Spacing

Space trees at least 20 feet or more from building foundations, driveways, sidewalks, or overhead utility lines. While the canopy can spread 35-60 feet at maturity, the root system will spread farther outside of the dripline, seeking water and nutrients. Plant other trees at least 20 feet away from Overcup. Shallow-rooted perennials and shrubs are perfect for creating an understory layer and will help suppress weeds and slow moisture evaporation in the soil.

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