In the open it is characterized by a short stocky bole with a wide spreading crown. In forest stands it develops a tall straight trunk with a compact crown. White oak generally has the reputation of being a slow growing tree. It is found on a wide range of soils and sites but more frequently occurs on rich, well-drained soils. Growth is good on all but driest and shallowest of soils.
White oak is classified as intermediate in shade tolerance.
Its valuable wood is used for furniture, flooring, timbers, handles, barrels, and other specialty products. It produces large, sweet acorns providing an excellent food for wildlife. White oak is often planted as an ornamental because of its broad, round crown, dense foliage, and red to purplish autumn leaf color. It is found on the best, well-drained ridges and loamy terraces in bottomlands throughout the piedmont and coastal plain. Swamp chestnut oak is intolerant of shade.