The Bur oak
The modest bur oak (Quercus macrocarpa) is an under appreciated tree that deserves a shout out and more observations use as a great environmental choice for energy and water conservation.
This member of the white oak group has clean shiny forest green leaves. Although oaks are falsely accused to be slow growers, this does not appear to be true when in cultivated spaces where they are less challenged with competition from a forest full of other trees. There is lots of variability-which makes each Bur oak totally unique!
Actually it seems possible that bur oak might be one of the faster growing members of the white oak group, especially once he has established his primary root system. There are some forestry reports that bur oak can compete with the rate of silver maples as far as visible growth including girth rate. Once he has recovered from his transplant shock /adjustment phase of 3-5 years, it is possible for him to contribute as an impressive place marker to a green space for more than 200 years! Planting this tree is visionary as far as sustainability and conservation!
The best part is the bur oak can be a memory tree for every one who sees him, and he can do this for multiple generations! (I always try to take a minute as I stand next to a tree to consider the many caretakers it takes to get to that moment in time and I am thankful)
Following a Bur oak as he changes from his flexible and youthful appearance to a mature stable adult tree is fast enough to be exciting! A mature bur oak can be nothing less than stunning!
And for those concerned with acorn clean up- you have a long wait. Maturity doesn’t arrive till this big guy is well past 25 years! Once acorns are produced, they occur only every 3-5 years and are easy to clean up and a grand food source for wildlife. Habitat use for but oak increases with age and height- birds like this high rise with housing options!
This clay lover requires no special care is needed except mulching near his trunk base to prevent mechanical weed trimmer/ lawn mower damage. A healthy bur oaks may flush (or produce new growth) as much as twice a season. He may alternate the direction of his energy to his roots or to top growth depending on his needs as he adapts to his living situation and its changes. – He is handsome and adaptable!
Although native to Missouri’s low woods and stream valleys in the Ozark region and the dry upland soils in the unglaciated parts of the state north of the Missouri River (Steyermark), Bur oak is also well appreciated by our neighboring state, Illinois, he is their State Tree. Way to go Illinois!
Bonus Information next: What Not to Do Now -Unless You WANT to Kiss Your Grass GOODBYE / Ornamental grass care!
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