A classic, eastern shade tree with a rounded crown of wide, spreading branches that are often horizontal. Height: 60-100’ Spread: 40-60’. It is not unusual for the crown spread of a white oak tree to be as wide as it is tall. The bark is a light ash-gray and peels somewhat from the top, bottom and/or sides. Leaves are alternate and obovate or oblong, with seven to nine lobes. Specimens have been documented to be over 450 years old. This tall tree has high-grade wood, making it a very important lumber tree.It was also used in colonial times for shipbuilding. The White Oak is often called the “Stave Oak” because the wood is outstanding in making tight barrels for whiskey and other liquids.
Forest, Grassland, Urban
Native to eastern and central North America and found from Minnesota, Ontario, Quebec, and southern Maine south as far as northern Florida and eastern Texas.
Spring, Summer, Fall
Common
Diurnal
White Oaks are a keystone species. The White Oak is critical to many wildlife and pollinator species. It provides forage for birds and mammals. It is also an important host for insects and helps to feed caterpillars which also in turn feed the birds.
Least Concern
