How Do You Identify a Blackjack Tree?

A blackjack tree is a species of deciduous tree in the family Juglandaceae, native to the southeastern United States. The blackjack name is derived from the fact that the leaves of the tree are shiny and black, and the fruit is black and sticky.

The blackjack tree is a medium-sized tree, reaching a height of 30 to 40 feet (9 to 12 meters). The trunk is typically straight, with a diameter of 1 to 2 feet (30 to 61 cm). The bark is dark brown or black, and rough to the touch. The leaves are simple, alternate, and oblong in shape, with a glossy black upper surface and a paler lower surface.

The leaf margins are serrated. The flowers are small and yellow-green, borne in clusters of 3 to 5. The fruit is a small, black drupe, about 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) in diameter.

The blackjack tree is found in upland woods and forest edges throughout the southeastern United States. It prefers well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade.

The tree is tolerant of drought and salt spray, making it an ideal choice for planting in coastal areas. Blackjack trees are often used as ornamental trees in landscaping due to their attractive foliage and form.

The blackjack tree has a number of traditional uses among Native American peoples of the southeastern United States. The wood was used to make bows, arrows, spears, and other weapons. The inner bark was used to make rope or twine.

The nuts were roasted and eaten as food. Today, the wood of the blackjack tree is still used for making charcoal, as well as for fuel wood and wood chips.

The blackjack tree is an important food source for wildlife, especially deer and squirrels. The nuts are also eaten by birds such as quail, grouse, turkey, and ducks.

To identify a blackjack tree, look for its distinctive shiny black leaves and sticky black fruit. The tree is also characterized by its straight trunk and rough bark.

If you find a tree with these features growing in the southeastern United States, it is likely a blackjack tree.