White Oak
Quercus alba · Fagaceae (Beech and Oak family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous leaf
Shape
Obovate with 7 to 9 rounded lobes
Margin
Lobed with characteristic rounded lobes and deep sinuses, lacking bristle tips.
Arrangement
Alternate arrangement along the twig
Venation
Pinnate venation with a prominent central midrib and branching secondary veins extending into the lobes.
Key Features
Rounded leaf lobes lacking bristle tips (unlike red oaks), light gray scaly bark, and acorns with warty cups that mature in a single season.
Description
The White Oak is a majestic, long-lived hardwood tree known for its massive spreading crown, durable wood, and distinctively rounded leaf lobes. The bark is light gray and scaly, breaking into vertical blocks on older trees. It produces sweet acorns that are heavily relied upon by wildlife.
Habitat
Found in upland forests, well-drained soils, and ridge tops. Prefers acidic to neutral soils and full sun to partial shade.
Native Range
Native to eastern and central North America, stretching from southern Quebec and Maine down to northern Florida and eastern Texas.