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| As we continue our project, Acorn Watch 2022, we are looking at the arboretum's only Arkansas oak (Quercus arkansana). This tree is more than 25 years old. It was collected locally in Caddo Parish. In November 2021, we examined this individual and were happy to find a ripe acorn. At the time, we also found online that, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature, this species is considered 'Vulnerable'. So, the acorns from the Arkansas oak are of extra special interest. |
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| Looking for acorns can be a challenge. The tree must be old enough to produce acorns, which often means that the tree's lower branches have either been removed or dropped. Luckily, our Arkansas oak has a drooping branch with a couple of acorns. A ladder was used to take the pictures. |
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| Here, we see dark green leaves and one immature acorn. The Student Union Building bricks are blurred in the background. |
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| On this twig, we see two different cohorts of acorn, both immature. The larger acorn will ripen this year, and the smaller acorn will ripen next year. |
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| So, how long will it take the larger ones to ripen? Can we expect ripe acorns in October or November? We shall see! |
