The Texas Red Oak (Quercus buckleyi) is the showpiece of Central Texas autumn — its crimson-red fall foliage is unmatched among native oaks. A medium-sized deciduous tree that’s well-adapted to San Antonio’s rocky, alkaline soils, it grows steadily and provides dappled shade. Alfaro Tree Sales has been growing Texas Red Oaks at our 40-acre Atascosa nursery since 1976.
The Texas Red Oak is one of the only native oaks that delivers reliable, vivid red and crimson fall color in the San Antonio area. Leaves turn from green to orange-red in November, often lasting 2–3 weeks before dropping.
Two top SA oaks with very different strengths.
Expected height after planting a 3” caliper tree (14–18 ft at install).
Deep water 2–3×/week during the first season. After establishment, water once per week in summer. Very drought-tolerant by year 3.
Prefers well-drained rocky or limestone soil — exactly what SA provides. Avoid heavy clay. A light application of balanced fertilizer in spring after year 1.
Prune in mid-winter (Jan–Feb) only. Avoid pruning Feb–Jun to reduce oak wilt risk from sap beetles. Remove dead or crossing branches.
October through March is ideal for root establishment before summer heat.
Choose your tree at our nursery or by phone. We deliver it to your property.
Machine-dug hole, native soil backfill, deep watering, and mulch ring installed.
Written care instructions plus a 30-day establishment check from our crew.
Texas Red Oaks grow 2–3 feet per year in San Antonio, reaching 30–40 feet within 12–15 years under good conditions.
Yes — they’re one of the best trees for fall color in Central Texas, turning brilliant red and crimson in November.
Texas Red Oaks are in the red oak family and are susceptible to oak wilt. Prune only in mid-winter and paint fresh wounds immediately to reduce risk.
They thrive in well-drained, rocky limestone soil — which is exactly what most San Antonio properties have. Avoid heavy, poorly-drained clay.
October through March is ideal. Our team plants year-round — summer installs require extra watering for 60–90 days.
We offer Texas Red Oaks from younger trees to mature specimens. All are field-grown at our 40-acre nursery in Atascosa. Call (210) 202-4284 or visit to see current inventory.
Yes. We provide professional delivery and planting across the San Antonio metro. Our team handles transport, planting, mulching, and post-care guidance. Request a free quote.
Mature Texas Red Oaks typically reach 30–50 ft tall with a 30–40 ft canopy spread, making them ideal for medium to large yards.
