Bur Oak (Mossycup Oak)
Quercus macrocarpa · Fagaceae (Beech and Oak family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Shape
Obovate, deeply lobed with a distinct large terminal lobe and narrow middle portion
Margin
Lobed with rounded, sinuate edges
Arrangement
Alternate
Venation
Pinnate with a prominent midrib and raised secondary veins
Key Features
Massive acorns with fringed, mossy cupules covering half or more of the nut; deeply lobed leaves pinched in the middle; corky, ridged twigs.
Description
The Bur Oak is a magnificent, long-lived shade tree famous for its massive acorns featuring a distinctive mossy or fringed cap, which is prominently displayed in the provided image. The bark is deeply furrowed and ruggedly corky, adding to its stout, majestic appearance in winter landscapes.
Habitat
Thrives in rich bottomland forests, riverbanks, and plains, often found growing in open savannas and prairies. Prefers full sun and moist, well-draining soils but exhibits high drought tolerance.
Native Range
Native to central and eastern North America, spanning from Nova Scotia west to Saskatchewan and south to Texas.