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Description
Quercus Arkansana, commonly known as the Arkansas Oak, is a species of oak tree that is native to Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Texas in the United States. It is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 70 feet tall and 3 feet in diameter. The bark of the Arkansas Oak is dark brown to gray, and the leaves are simple, alternate, and oblong in shape, with irregularly toothed margins. The tree produces acorns that are oval in shape and up to 1 inch long.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fagales |
| Family | Fagaceae |
| Genus | Quercus |
Appearance
The Arkansas Oak is a large, stately tree that can add beauty and shade to any landscape. Its leaves are dark green and glossy during the summer months, turning yellow and orange in the fall. The tree’s bark is rough and deeply furrowed, adding texture to its appearance. Its acorns are a valuable food source for wildlife, including squirrels, deer, and birds.
Care Guide
Proper care of the Arkansas Oak is essential to keeping it healthy and thriving. Here are some tips to help you care for your tree:
- Water: Water your tree regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your tree once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The Arkansas Oak prefers well-draining, acidic soil. If your soil is not acidic, you can add sulfur to lower the pH.
- Sunlight: The Arkansas Oak prefers full sun to partial shade. Plant it in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: The Arkansas Oak is hardy in USDA zones 6 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Arkansas Oak is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including:
- Oak Wilt: A fungal disease that can kill the tree within a few months.
- Gall Wasps: These pests cause galls to form on the leaves, which can damage the tree’s growth.
- Leafminers: These pests create tunnels in the leaves, which can reduce the tree’s ability to produce food through photosynthesis.
If you notice any signs of pests or disease, contact a professional tree care company for assistance.
Habitat
The Arkansas Oak is native to upland forests in Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Texas. It prefers well-draining, acidic soil and full sun to partial shade. The tree is an important food source for wildlife, including squirrels, deer, and birds.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Arkansas Oak grow in a container?
A: While the Arkansas Oak can grow in a container when young, it will eventually outgrow it and need to be planted in the ground.
Q: How often should I water my Arkansas Oak?
A: Water your Arkansas Oak regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged.
Q: What is the best time of year to fertilize my Arkansas Oak?
A: The best time to fertilize your Arkansas Oak is in the spring, just as the tree begins to produce new growth.
Q: Can I prune my Arkansas Oak?
A: Yes, you can prune your Arkansas Oak to remove dead or damaged branches. However, avoid pruning during the summer months, as this can stress the tree.
Related Plants
- Quercus alba (White Oak)
- Quercus shumardii (Shumard Oak)
- Quercus nigra (Water Oak)
- Quercus rubra (Red Oak)
References
- USDA Plants Database: Quercus Arkansana
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Quercus Arkansana
- University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture: Arkansas Oak
- North Carolina State University Extension: Quercus Arkansana
