post oak (Quercus stellata)
Family: Fagaceae
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| Form:
This is a medium sized tree 50 – 60 ft. in height and 1-2 ft. in dbh. |
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Leaves: Shape: form a cross; cuneate base Margin: entire Texture: glabrous and dark green above; glaucous and pubescent below Variation: pinnate |
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| Bark:
The bark is gray with light patches, shallow furrows and narrow ridges similar to white oak but tighter. |
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| Twigs and Buds:
Twigs are stout and somewhat tomentose. The buds are sub-globose and covered with chestnut brown scales. |
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| Flowers and Fruit:
Green to red appearing in catskins. |
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| Distinguishing Characteristics:
Look for the gray tomentose twig, cruciform (cross shaped) leaf shape, and scaly bark similar to white oak. |
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| Range:
Massachusetts south to Florida west to Oklahoma and north to southern Indiana. |
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| Silvics:
It has intermediate tolerance of shade and most often occurs on dry uplands commonly on heavy soils. |
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| Ecological and Cultural Importance:
Wood resistant to decay, used in flooring siding and fence posts. Provides habitat for birds and mammals. Acorns eaten by deer, wild turkey, and rodents. |
