Description
Quercus phellos ‘Hightower’ ®, commonly known as the Willow Oak, is a distinctive oak cultivar prized for its graceful, narrow, lance-shaped leaves that resemble those of a willow tree, setting it apart from typical oaks with lobed foliage. Originating as a selection of the native Quercus phellos species, which is widespread in the southeastern United States, this cultivar is valued for its rapid growth, adaptability, and tolerance to urban conditions, making it a popular choice for shade and street tree plantings. ‘Hightower’® exhibits excellent resistance to common oak pests and diseases, and its tidy, pyramidal form maintains an elegant profile throughout the seasons. The tree’s autumn color transitions subtly to golden brown, providing seasonal interest without the messy leaf drop seen in some oaks. Its combination of resilience, aesthetic appeal, and landscape adaptability has earned it recognition among arborists and landscape professionals seeking reliable and attractive urban canopy trees.