Bur Oak - Top Gun - #15

The Bur Oak - Top Gun is a specially selected cultivar of Quercus macrocarpa, known for its strong central leader, upright growth habit, and exceptional adaptability to prairie climates. This hardy, long-lived shade tree features classic lobed oak leaves, deeply ridged bark, and a strong, symmetrical form that stands up well to wind and drought once established.

Perfect for large landscapes, shelterbelts, or urban plantings, Top Gun offers a combination of stately presence, minimal maintenance, and high tolerance to a wide range of environmental conditions, including clay soil and extreme cold.

Key Features:

Upright, symmetrical growth with strong central leader

Native North American oak with excellent cold hardiness (zones 3–8)

Tolerant of drought, wind, clay soil, and urban conditions

Deep green foliage turns golden-brown in fall

Long-lived and low maintenance once established

Ideal for shelterbelts, street plantings, and large open spaces

Care Instructions:

Sunlight: Requires full sun for best growth and structure

Soil: Adapts well to most soils, including clay and alkaline types; prefers well-drained locations

Watering: Water regularly during the first few years; very drought-tolerant once established

Pruning: Minimal pruning needed; prune in late winter to remove crossing or damaged limbs

Fertilization: Generally not required; apply a tree fertilizer only if growth is poor in depleted soils

Maintenance: Very low-maintenance; develops a deep taproot for long-term stability and resilience