Plant-Lover's Tour

"Oddball Oaks (a.k.a. Quirky Quercus)"
Greg Paige and Evan Villani, Director of Horticulture and Research Technician, respectively

  • Tuesday, September 2, 2025 – 9:00 am–10:00 am

Love plants? So do we! And few groups are more fascinating—or more surprising—than the mighty oaks. Think all oaks are towering shade trees with sturdy trunks, rounded crowns, and lobed leaves? Think again. Join Director of Horticulture Greg Paige and Research Technician Evan Villani for a tree tour that dives headfirst into the wonderfully weird world of Quercus—a genus full of eccentric cousins, colorful characters, and downright peculiar trees that are anything but ordinary.

Foliage of a Quercus glauca 'Shima Fu'

From dwarf oaks that defy expectations to variegated, evergreen, and ridgy-barked oddities that practically demand a double-take, you’ll meet an unforgettable cast of arboreal misfits. Along the way, Greg and Evan will share insights into their care, cultivation, and landscape potential—because even the quirkiest (querkiest?) trees deserve a place to shine.

Whether you're a seasoned dendrophile, a casual oak fan, or someone who just appreciates a good leaf with a deep sinus, join us to celebrate the fascinating diversity of these extraordinary trees!

Cost
Free for JCRA Members, $5.00 for nonmembers.
Registration
Advance registration is not available.
Location
Tour begins at the Visitor Center at the JC Raulston Arboretum at NC State University, 4415 Beryl Road, Raleigh, NC 27606.
Directions
Need directions? Click here.
Parking
Free parking is available at the JC Raulston Arboretum and along Beryl Road.
Questions
Contact the JCRA Education Team at jcraprograms@ncsu.edu for more information about this program.