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Shummard Oak
Quercus shummardii
Characteristics: A native cool season tree occurring in bottomland and riparian areas. Some form of this oak or a cross between this oak and Black oak, Quercus velutina, can also be found on moist upland sites and limestone outcrops. Shummard oak belongs to a group of oaks commonly called red oaks. Black oak, Southern red oak, Q. falcata, and Blackjack oak, Q. marilandica, are other oaks that belong to that group. Of the group, Shummard oak generally produces the largest acorns and has the most deeply lobed leaves.
Area of Importance: Eastern U.S.
Attributes: Shummard oak is one of the most important oak species to wildlife. Its dominance is critical for mast production in hardwood bottomland. In our area, Shummard acorns (mast) are consumed by white-tailed deer, turkey, feral hog, squirrel, quail, and many other bird species. These acorns are a major wildlife food source during the fall and into the winter.
Problems: Shummard oak timber has varying degrees of value. However, careful consideration should be given to any logging operation in order to maintain its value for wildlife. For instance, unrestricted logging in central or west-central Oklahoma can dramatically reduce the value of bottomland and riparian areas to wildlife.
I.D. Tip: Shummard oak bark is gray to black in color with an occasional splotch of white. The bark is usually smooth but is sometimes slightly ridged. Shummard oak leaves are lobed varying in depth and number (7 to 9). Lower leaves are often different than upper leaves in lobe length and number. Leaf venation of this oak like others in the red oak group extend beyond the leaf margin, forming pin-like projections.
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