Swamp Chestnut Oak or "Cow Oak" is know for its tough, enduring hardwood. The Swamp chestnut is also known as "basket oak" refering to the long, thin strips of wood that are split from this tree and used to make baskets. It is interesting that the high quality wood is used in all kinds of construction and for implements. Its unique leaf shape and darker bark make it a showy landscape tree. The leaves are late to emerge as evident by the photo taken in late spring.

Bark: The young bark of Swamp Chestnut Oak is light gray and very scaly, while its mature bark develops ridges that break into light gray blocks separated by dark gray, deep trenches; both types of bark may be similar in appearance to that of the Chestnut or Basket Oak (Q.prinus).

Foliage: Swamp Chestnut Oak has alternate, simple leaves that are roughly oval, leathery, 4 - 6 inches long and 1 1/2 - 4 inches wide. When new they are usually coated on the underside with thick, silvery white fuzz. Fall color ranges from bronzed to brown coloration in good years, but yellowish-brown coloration in average years.

Flowers: The male flowers are yellow green long catkins (2 - 4 inches long). The female flowers are green to reddish.

Fruit: The acorn is 1 - 1 1/2 inches long, ovoid and 1/3 covered by a thick cup that has rough, wedged-shaped scales.

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More Information

Tree ID Number:	767
Scientific Name:	Quercus michauxii
Mature Height:	60 - 80ft
Canopy Spread (Diameter):	50 - 70ft
Branching Shape:	Moderately stout
Growth Rate:	Stately and uniformed
Wood Strength:	Hard, tough, very strong and heavy
Cold Hardiness Zone:	4-8
Soil Moisture Requirements:	Wet, Moist
Light Requirements:	Sun
Common Pests:	None serious
Comments:	A good shade tree that does well in damp locations.

Find this tree on the Campus Map

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