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Question from David, Japan (received 4/28/20) -

Can a non-Asian tree species (e.g. an Oak) grow in Asia?

Answer from Gabrielle Harden, USU Forestry Extension Educator (sent 4/22/20) -

Yes. It really comes down to the growing conditions a species requires. Every species has different growing requirements, and it is important to understand those prior to planting. Things to consider include zone hardiness, soil pH, drainage, water requirements, and sun requirements. Similar to North America, Asia has a large variety of hardiness zones. Japan in particular ranges from Zone 3 in the northern region to 11 b on the south-eastern islands. A majority of oak trees can grow in hardiness zones 4-9, some in zone 3 and the Live Oak up to zone 10. The Bur Oak, for example, is very adaptable. This species can grow in a variety of soils (alkaline, acidic, sandy, clay, moist, well-draining). It can grow in zones 3-8 and prefers full sun. Arbor Day Foundation is a useful website that provides growing information for a wide variety of tree species.

Whenever you plant a non-native tree, it is important to consider whether or not it is considered invasive. Not all non-native species are invasive, but many are. Invasive trees can out-compete native species and drastically change the landscape. There are actually several oaks that are native to Japan, so you may consider those species first.

I hope this helps.