Post Oak (Iron Oak, Delta Post Oak)
Quercus stellata · Fagaceae (Beech and Oak family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous leaf
Shape
Distinctively cruciform or cross-shaped with 5 lobes, dominated by a large pair of square-set opposite lateral lobes
Margin
Entire (smooth edges), wavy, lacking teeth
Arrangement
Alternate arrangement along the twigs
Venation
Pinnate venation with a prominent midrib and raised primary veins
Key Features
Cruciform (cross-shaped) leaf silhouette, deeply leathery texture, and stellate (star-shaped) hairs on the lower leaf surface and twigs
Description
The Post Oak is a medium-sized deciduous tree known for its rugged, gnarled branches and dense, dark green canopy. Its most famous feature is the uniquely shaped leaf that resembles a cross or crucifix, making it easily distinguishable from other oaks. The bark is dark brown to gray, deeply furrowed into scaly ridges. It produces small, oval acorns that mature in a single season.
Habitat
Dry, poor, rocky, or sandy upland soils, ridges, and dry woods; highly drought-resistant and tolerant of acidic soils
Native Range
Native to the eastern and central United States, ranging from Massachusetts west to Iowa and Kansas, and south to Florida and Texas