Oak, Chinkapin

Quercus muehlenbergii, Deciduous

Next to bur oak, chinkapin oak is the second most adaptable white oak that can be grown in Nebraska. It has a wide geographic distribution occurring naturally from Mexico to southern Canada and is native to the southeast part of Nebraska.

Where To Grow

Perhaps in part because of its tolerance of higher pH soils, it has been planted successfully across the state proving quite adaptable to a wide variety of conditions. Chinkapin is sometimes used for landscaping as a small ornamental tree or shrub. Its flowers are attractive but have an unpleasant odor.

Suitable to plant throughout the state.

Size at Maturity

Tree Height	Tree Spread
40-60'	40-50'

Tree Characteristics

The common name ‘chinkapin’ is actually an alternative common name for chestnut which refers to this tree’s chestnut-like leaves that are rather narrow and broadly serrated. Chinkapin oak has a distinctive flaky, gray-yellowish bark as it matures, leading to one of its other common names—the yellow oak.

Wildlife Benefits

Squirrels, chipmunks, opossums, white-tailed deer, blue jays, woodpeckers and other birds consume chinkapin nuts. White-tailed deer browse the foliage.

Additional Considerations

Similar species tree collectors could try are the dwarf chinkapin and chestnut oaks.

Interesting Facts

The Cherokee Indians used dried leaves as washes to alleviate headaches, fevers, chills, cold sweats, and fever blisters. The Koasati Indians used the roots of chinkapin as a decoction for stomachaches.

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