Turkey oak

Quercus laevis

Family: FagaceaeZones: 7a to 9b per NC State. UF/IFAS gives no zones

Pet & Human Safety

People: Toxic to people (low severity)Pets: Not on the ASPCA lists as we read them

Hazardous parts

fruits (acorns), leaves

Preparation

n/a

Hazard type

stomach and gut upset: abdominal pain, constipation then diarrhea (sometimes bloody), depression, frequent urination, discolored urine, jaundice; acorns can block the digestive tract

Hazard route

Not yet checked.

How complete this information is

We have not researched the safety of this plant yet.

Toxic to pets

No ASPCA entry found.

Toxic to horses only per ASPCA's oak genus page. Dogs and cats are not covered by that page, so this is not a clearance for them. Acorns and leaves are the poisonous parts per NC State, and acorns can block the gut. Do not treat as pet safe.

PlotAndPetal cannot tell you whether a plant you found can be eaten. Only someone who can see the plant can identify it.

Poison control

If someone has collapsed, cannot be woken, is having a seizure or has trouble breathing, call 911 now. For any other possible poisoning, call Poison Help: 1-800-222-1222.

Emergency number source: U.S. federal law (47 U.S.C. § 251(e)(3)), read 2026-10-07.

Naturalist Lore

Historical Background & Breeding Lore

The history of this plant and its name, and how it was bred, where we have them.

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Care

Hardiness zones: USDA 7a to 9b per NC State. UF/IFAS gives no zones.
Water needs: low
Mature size: 30 to 40 ft tall and 10 to 20 ft wide per NC State. UF/IFAS: generally about 40 ft, can reach 70 ft.
Where it comes from: Native from Virginia south to central Florida and west to southeastern Louisiana, on xeric sand dunes, sandhills and ridges (UF/IFAS). NC State lists AL, FL, GA, LA, MS, NC, SC and VA.

Soil & Drainage

Pruning & Flush Rhythm

Feeding Schedule

How to prepare the soil, when and what to feed, and how and when to prune where that applies.

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