Pin Oak (Quercus palustris) vs. Scarlet Oak (Quercus coccinea)

These oaks are frequently confused, especially when used as landscaping plants, as both have deeply-lobed leaves. In the wild, these species prefer almost opposite moisture conditions and rarely occur together. Pruning of landscaping plants can also make ID difficult by obscuring shape distinctions that are obvious on wild plants. Where present, they are easily distinguished by acorns, and with more effort, by pubescence on buds and leaf shape. Although both can be found in sunny, early-successional habitats, pin oak prefers wet, often poorly-drained conditions, whereas scarlet oak is typically found on dry sites with thin, rocky soil.

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