Compared to other trees that live to a ripe old age, oaks tend to stay small. They rarely reach more than 35 meters, occasionally just a few meters more. To do this, they develop a thick trunk and a sprawling, distinctive tree crown.
How big do oak trees get?
Oaks reach a rather small size compared to other trees, rarely more than 35 meters. Their growth depends on the depth of the taproot and the location, with oaks requiring more light than beeches.
Oak trees grow slowly
Oaks take a long time to grow into a stately tree. On average, they only gain height between 40 millimeters and 70 millimeters per year.
The size of an oak tree depends on how deep the taproot can penetrate into the ground. The location also plays a role. Oaks need more light than, for example, beeches.
Diseases, pest infestations and poor environmental conditions limit the growth of oak trees. In unfavorable conditions it does not grow as large as other specimens.
Consider later size when planting oak trees
If you plan to plant an oak tree in the garden, you should take the eventual dimensions into account.
The crown initially develops in width much faster than the trunk. If it is initially valued as a source of shade, this can lead to problems with neighbors or in your own garden in later years.
Old oak trees are difficult to transplant
Due to their size and deep taproot, oak trees that are more than a few years old are difficult to transplant without destroying them.
From the beginning, look for a location for your oak tree where its later size will not become a problem.
Tips & Tricks
The Kattholz oak, which can be found on the Perdöl estate in the Schleswig-Holstein community of Belau, is considered to be the thickest oak in Germany. In 2000, its trunk circumference was 12.84 meters, measured at a height of one meter. Her age is estimated at a maximum of 450 years.
