Black Oak
Quercus velutina 
Black oak is found over the entire state. It can tolerate dry rocky ridges and upper slopes but makes good growth on better quality sites. The wood of the tree is used for flooring, pallets, railroad ties and rough lumber. It is a consistent producer of acorns for wildlife.
Identifying Characteristics
- Height
- 85 ft
- Spread
- 85 ft
- Leaves
- alternate, simple, 4" - 9" long, elliptical; usually 7-9 lobes with bristle-tipped teeth; shiny green above, yellow green and hairy below
- Flowers
- male flowers in yellow-green catkins; female flowers inconspicuous
- Fruit
- acorn, 5/8" - 3/4" long; l/2 enclosed by deep, thick cup with fringed border of loose scales
- Bark
- gray and smooth on young trees; becoming nearly black, deeply furrowed into ridge; inner bark orange
- Associated species
- white, northern red, post and scarlet oak, hickory, shortleaf pine
- Ideal site conditions
- average soil, partial sun
- Value to man
- landscaping, wood products, windbreaks, erosion
- Value to wildlife
- food, cover, dens
- Growth Rate
- medium
- Range
