Quercus macrocarpa aka Burr Oak
Taxonomy ID: 6871
Quercus macrocarpa, commonly known as the bur oak or burr oak, is a large deciduous oak tree native to eastern North America. It belongs to the white oak section, Quercus sect. Quercus, and is also referred to as mossycup oak, mossycup white oak, blue oak, or scrub oak. This impressive tree can reach heights of up to 25m and has green lobed leaves that turn yellow-brown in the autumn before they gracefully fall. One of the distinguishing features of Quercus macrocarpa is its acorns, which are the largest among all North American oaks. The name "macrocarpa" is derived from the Ancient Greek words for "large" (makrós) and "fruit" (karpós). These acorns serve as an essential food source for a variety of wildlife. The cup of the acorn is covered in long hairs, forming a fringe around the rim.
Quercus macrocarpa is a medium to large-sized oak tree with a broad-spreading, rounded crown. It typically grows between 60-80 feet in height, occasionally reaching up to 150 feet. The plant is native to various habitats in central and eastern North America. In the spring, insignificant yellowish-green flowers appear in separate male and female catkins as the leaves start to emerge. The fruits of Quercus macrocarpa are oval-shaped acorns, measuring around 1 1/2 inches in length. These acorns have fringed, burry cups that extend to approximately half to three-quarters of the acorn's length. Wildlife heavily relies on these acorns as a food source. The leathery, dark green leaves of this oak tree are variable in shape, typically featuring 5-9 rounded lobes. They often have a pair of deep central sinuses that extend nearly to the midrib, giving the leaf a waisted appearance. During the fall season, the leaves turn an undistinguished yellow-brown color.
Common names
Burr Oak, Bur Oak, Mossy Cup OakMore information about Burr Oak
How difficult is it to take care of Burr Oak
With its straightforward care requirements, Burr Oak is a hassle-free plant that anyone can enjoy.
What is the region of origin of Burr Oak
Burr Oak’s native range is Eastern N. America - Nova Scotia to Manitoba, Wyoming, Massachusetts, Georgia, Kansas and Texas.
What are the water needs for Burr Oak
Burr Oak should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
What is the right soil for Burr Oak
Burr Oak loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
What is the sunlight requirement for Burr Oak
To ensure optimal growth, the Burr Oak prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
How to fertilize Burr Oak
The Burr Oak is characterized by its slow growth and doesn't need fertilization in addition to its potting soil. By renewing the soil in its pot once a year, it should have enough nutrition. Remember, plants get their energy from sunlight, not from any fertilizers.
Is Burr Oak toxic to humans/pets?
Burr Oak is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.
More info:
Wikipedia
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