Pin Oak (Quercus palustris)
 
The pin oak is a fast-growing, medium to large deciduous tree native to the eastern and central United States. It typically reaches heights of 60 to 70 feet and is recognized for its distinctive pyramidal shape in youth, with a strong central trunk and gracefully drooping lower branches. Its glossy, deeply lobed leaves are a rich green in summer, turning striking shades of bronze and deep red in autumn.
 
The tree gets its name from the small, slender twigs—or “pins”—that often remain on its branches. Pin oaks produce small, round acorns that mature over two seasons, serving as a valuable 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 elegant form and seasonal color. Its stately silhouette and hardy nature make it a standout feature in parks, streets, and yards alike.