Description

Keystone Value: The genus Quercus (Oak) supports over 500 species of butterfly and moth caterpillars, providing food for a variety of birds and mammals.

“White oak is the standard by which all other oaks are measured… One of America’s most handsome native species.” (Michael Dirr).

This stately tree can reach 50-80 feet and makes an impressive specimen tree with its broad round shape, dense foliage, and beautiful russet-red fall color. Its iconic acorns provide food for a variety of native mammals and birds while its branches and cavities also provide them shelter. Like other oaks, the White Oak has excellent wildlife value. As a keystone species, oak trees host hundreds of species of butterfly and moth caterpillars (including the Edwards Hairstreak Butterfly pictured above), making them an essential component of biodiverse local food webs.