Red Oak (Quercus rubra): This important oak grows from Nova Scotia south through the northeastern U.S. west to Minnesota and south to Louisiana then east to the coast. It grows with a wide range of temperatures and precipitation and is very cold hardy and somewhat drought tolerant. It grows moderately fast with optimal conditions. It grows a vigorous taproot early in the seedling stage. Northern red oak shoot growth is episodic. When moisture, light, and temperature is favorable shoot growth flushes occur several times during the growing season with rest periods between the flushes. It is moderately tolerant of shade. The wood is valuable for finish carpentry and red oaks are planted widely for shade and landscaping. Acorns are important food for many wildlife (U.S. Forest Service Silvics Manual).