Water Oak
Quercus nigra · Fagaceae (Beech and Oak family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous to semi-evergreen depending on climate
Shape
Oblanceolate or spatulate, wider near the apex and tapering towards the base, often with a shallow three-lobed tip
Margin
Entire, smooth edges, occasionally slightly wavy or obscurely three-lobed near the rounded apex
Arrangement
Alternate along the twig
Venation
Pinnate venation with a prominent pale midrib and branching lateral veins
Key Features
Spatulate or wedge-shaped leaves that are wider at the tip than the base, smooth margins, and a tiny bristle tip at the apex
Description
Quercus nigra is a medium to large deciduous tree known for its distinctively shaped spatula-like leaves. It features dark, furrowed bark and produces small acorns that provide critical wildlife food in bottomland forests.
Habitat
Typically found along streams, bottomlands, floodplains, and damp lowland areas, preferring moist, poorly-drained soils and full sun to partial shade
Native Range
Native to the southeastern and south-central United States, ranging from New Jersey south to Florida and west to Texas