Quercus velutina
Black Oak is an uncommon tree that closely resembles the more commonly known Red Oak. The wild populations are mainly associated with tall-grass prairies, but this species can survive on other sites as well. It is a large tree that typically grows to a height of 15-25 m. Black Oak leaves are sharply pointed, have 5-9 lobes, and very deep U-shaped notches. The underside of the leaves are yellowish-brown in colour. The acorns produced are 1-2 cm long and are a food source for White-tailed Deer, small mammals, and birds.
Black Oak is adaptable to varying soil types, but does best in dry to moist sandy soils. It requires full sun and is intolerant of shade and competition from other trees. Black Oak is also resistant to grass fires, which aid in its survival in tall-grass prairie ecosystems.
