Turkey Oak
Turkey oak (Quercus laevis) in Jonathan Dickenson State Park, Florida. Photo: Homer Edward Price.
Turkey oaks grow wild in dry, sandy areas throughout the Southeast, averaging 15 to 30 feet in height. Because of their compact size, they're also a worthwhile tree for many home landscapes.
Turkey oaks feature foliage that has a classic oak-leaf shape. And thanks to their bright red foliage in the fall and highly textured bark, they're interesting trees to look at no matter what the season.
Turkey oaks appreciate regular watering while they're getting established, but after that, they're drought tolerant and require little care.
And because they produce an abundant acorn crop, planting a turkey oak could bring you a parade of wildlife, including squirrels, deer, or yes, even a turkey.