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Description
Quercus Velutina, commonly known as the black oak, is a deciduous tree native to eastern and central North America. The tree can grow up to 100 feet tall and has a broad, rounded crown. The bark of the black oak is dark and rough, with deep furrows and ridges. The leaves are simple and alternate, with a length of 5-8 inches and a width of 3-6 inches. The leaves are dark green on the top and pale green on the bottom, with a slightly hairy texture. The black oak produces acorns, which are a food source for many animals.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukarya |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fagales |
| Family: | Fagaceae |
| Genus: | Quercus |
Appearance
The black oak is a large, stately tree with a broad crown and dark, rough bark. Its leaves are simple and alternate, with a dark green color on the top and a pale green color on the bottom. The leaves are slightly hairy and have a length of 5-8 inches and a width of 3-6 inches. The black oak produces acorns, which have a length of 1-2 inches and a width of 0.5-1 inch. The acorns have a cap that covers about one-third of the nut.
Care Guide
The black oak requires moderate care and maintenance. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun exposure. The tree should be watered regularly, especially during periods of drought, but avoid overwatering. Fertilization should be done annually in the spring using a slow-release fertilizer. The black oak is hardy in zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The black oak is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including oak wilt, cankers, powdery mildew, and oak leaf blister. Borers and gypsy moths can also damage the tree. Regular inspections and treatments can help prevent and control these issues.
Habitat
The black oak is commonly found in forests and woodlands throughout eastern and central North America. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun exposure but can also tolerate some shade. The tree is an important food source for many animals, including deer, squirrels, and birds.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the lifespan of a black oak?
A: Black oaks can live for up to 200 years.
Q: Can black oaks grow in wet soil?
A: No, black oaks prefer well-drained soil.
Q: Can black oaks grow in full shade?
A: No, black oaks prefer full sun exposure but can tolerate some shade.
Q: Do black oaks produce acorns every year?
A: No, black oaks produce acorns every 2-3 years.
Related Plants
- Quercus alba (white oak)
- Quercus rubra (red oak)
- Quercus palustris (pin oak)
- Quercus bicolor (swamp white oak)
References
- “Quercus Velutina.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=h190.
- “Quercus Velutina.” USDA Forest Service, www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/tree/quevel/all.html.
- “Black Oak.” Arbor Day Foundation, www.arborday.org/trees/treeguide/TreeDetail.cfm?ItemID=866.
