Saturnalia™ Oak Makes an Award-Winning Debut at Farwest
We were incredibly proud to showcase Saturnalia™ American hybrid oak at the Farwest Show this year, where it was recognized with awards in the New Variety Showcase.
It was exciting to introduce this tree to growers, buyers, and other industry professionals and to see such a positive response to a tree we have been eager to share with the industry.
Meet Saturanalia™
Across the continent, red oak has become a stalwart component of the urban forest. On the West Coast and Southwest, silverleaf oak is gaining a following for its wide adaptability. Saturnalia™ brings together some of the best attributes of both parents.
It is a great nursery tree and a promising addition to the urban forest, with vigorous, upright growth and a strong central leader. Its deep green leaves emerge red and are especially attractive, with deep acute lobes and the thick texture inherited from its Quercus hypoleucoides parent.
In Oregon, the foliage remains green well into the season, turning red with colder temperatures in December and January. The leaves often remain on the tree until new growth resumes in spring.
Trials in the heat and humidity of North Carolina have also shown strong performance. Its full hardiness is still being evaluated, but it successfully survived its first winter at the Chicago Botanic Garden, and we are optimistic about its potential into Zone 5.
Built for the Urban Forest
Oaks have long been valued for their strength, shade, wildlife benefits, and longevity. Saturnalia™ continues that tradition while offering a fresh combination of traits for today’s landscapes.
Its upright habit and strong leader make it especially appealing from a production standpoint, while its attractive foliage, seasonal color, and adaptability make it a compelling choice for landscape use.
As cities continue to look for resilient trees that can perform across a range of climates and growing conditions, Saturnalia™ offers an exciting new option.
We were honored to see Saturnalia™ recognized at this year’s Farwest Show and even more excited by the interest it received from people throughout the industry.
Thank you to everyone who stopped by, asked questions, and took a closer look. We’re excited to continue watching this tree grow and develop.
