Pin Oak (Quercus palustris)
 
The pin oak is a fast-growing, medium to large deciduous tree native to the eastern and central United States. Typically reaching heights of 60 to 70 feet, it is known for its distinctive pyramidal shape when young, with a strong central trunk and gracefully drooping lower branches. Its glossy, deeply lobed leaves are a rich green in summer, turning shades of bronze and deep red in autumn. The tree gets its name from the small, slender twigs—or “pins”—that often remain on the branches. Pin oaks produce small, round acorns that mature in two seasons and serve as a food source for birds and mammals. Adaptable and tolerant of wet soils, the pin oak is commonly planted in urban and suburban landscapes for its striking form and seasonal color. With its elegant silhouette and hardy nature, the pin oak brings structure and life to parks, streets, and yards alike.