Although this is not a commercial species, it is valuable. Its lumber is mostly substitutable for the true white oak (Quercus alba), and its very large acorns are taken by quadrupeds (Odocoileus virginianus) and tree rats (Sciurus carolinensis).
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| Two specimens can be found near the wooden bridge that runs in the floodplain between the SUB and the Fitness Center. These trees are the youngest specimens, collected and planted after 1995. Curiously, they show extensive suckering along the lowest branches. Information on this issue is not forthcoming and the trees appear to otherwise be healthy. |
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| In this picture, the suckering phenomenon is apparent. Limbs that would normally be leaf-free when close to the trunk have instead sprouted. Because this behavior is unusual and the leaves also appear to have been feasted on by unknown predators, it will be necessary to monitor these trees more closely in the future. |
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| Below the retention wall that separates the Arboretum from Hamilton Hall, another overcup oak is growing. To see what it looked like last year, examine our previous post. This is the oldest specimen on campus. Dr. Ed Leuck planted the tree in 1990. It has a good upright form but several dead lower branches. There is very little suckering here when compared to the previous trees. |
The bark of the overcup oak is quite handsome, though not shelved and plated to the degree typical of the Quercus alba.
The arboretum's overcup oaks show extensive signs of predation by Sphyrapicus varius, the yellow-bellied sapsucker. These holes are drilled by the bird in order to extract the plant tissues and juices upon which it depends for half its diet.
The likely effect of this activity on the health and longevity of the trees is unknown, although for some species of birch and maple, it is associated with mortality.
An immature acorn of the overcup oak, diameter about 1"
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| Cluster of immature overcup oak acorns |
For comparison, immature acorns of the white oak are smaller and more of the seed is showing.
