Oak, Water

Water oak is a tall slender tree that reaches 50′ to 80′ in height. It is characterized as having a rounded crown that is symmetrical in shape. It is a medium-sized deciduous tree, growing to 30 m (100 ft) tall with a trunk up to 1 m (3 ft) in diameter. Water Oak is adapted to wet, swampy areas, such as along ponds and stream banks, but can also tolerate other well-drained sites and even heavy, compacted soils. It grows in sandy soils, red clays, and old fields to the borders of swamps, streams, to bottomlands. Due to its ability to grow and reproduce quickly, the water oak is often the most abundant species in a stand of trees. The tree is relatively short-lived compared to other oaks and may live only 60 to 80 years. It does not compete well and does not tolerate even light shade.

The LEAVES are tardily deciduous, simple, and alternately arranged. They are 2″ to 4″ long and may be variable in shape. Most commonly they are shaped like a spatula, broad and rounded at the top and narrow and wedged at the base. The margins vary usually having smooth to shallowly lobed. The top of each leaf is a dull green to bluish green and the bottom is a paler bluish-green. On the bottom portion of the leaves, rusty colored hairs run along the veins. The Water Oak is typically identified by its destinctive leaves.

The ACORNS are arranged singly, or in pairs, and mature in the second year. They are usually 3/8″ to 1/2″ in length. The younger trees possess a smooth, brown BARK that becomes gray-black with rough scaly ridges as the tree matures.

As for its HABITAT, Water oak grows in moist or wet soils of upland and lowland forests. These trees are often found growing with sweetgum. The heavy, hard WOOD is used for lumber, and as a fuelwood. Its attractive form makes it a popular landscape tree. Water oak acorns provide food for many animals such as squirrels, white-tailed deer and wild turkey.

As for its HABITAT, Water oak grows in moist or wet soils of upland and lowland forests. These trees are often found growing with sweetgum. The heavy, hard WOOD is used for lumber, and as a fuelwood. Its attractive form makes it a popular landscape tree. Water oak acorns provide food for many animals such as squirrels, white-tailed deer and wild turkey.