Common names: bur oak, mossy-cup oak

Scientific names: Quercus macrocarpa (Q. mandanensis)

Seasons of significant use: spring, summer, fall, winter (for Quercus spp. complex)

Characteristics: Native, perennial tree to 150.0 feet. Bark light gray to rown, deeply fissured; leaves deciduous, alternate, simple, shiny and hairless on upper surface, paler and hairy on lower surface, 5-10 lobed (not bristle tipped), lobes separated by deep sinuses, some of the sinuses having an angular appearance; plants monoecious; inflorescence are catkins; fruit is a 1-seeded nut called an acorn, very large, solitary or paired, cup enclosing 50-75% of the nut and having a fringed border, maturing the first year in the fall. Flowers April-May.

Plant community type: Bottomlands.

Comments: One of the "climax" species in bottomland hardwood forests in the region of the study area.

More Plant Photos and Descriptions:
Appendix C: Plants by Common Name
Appendix C: Plants by Scientific Name
Appendix C: Plants Listed by Family