Is Blackjack Oak a White Oak?

Blackjack oak (Quercus marilandica) is a small, deciduous oak tree that is native to the eastern and central United States. The blackjack oak is a member of the white oak group (Quercus sect.

Quercus), and its wood is very similar to that of other white oaks. The blackjack oak is distinguished from other white oaks by its small size, its dark bark, and its leaves, which have small, rounded lobes. .

The blackjack oak grows to a height of 20-30 feet (6-9 m) and a width of 15-25 feet (4.5-7.5 m). The tree has a short trunk and a narrow, oval crown. The bark is dark brown or black, and the branches are covered with small, sharp thorns. The leaves are alternate, simple, and oblong in shape.

They are 2-5 inches (5-12 cm) long and 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) wide. The margins of the leaves are entire or have small, rounded lobes. The upper surface of the leaves is dark green and glossy, while the lower surface is paler green. The leaves turn yellow or brown in autumn before they fall from the tree.

The blackjack oak flowers from April to May. The male flowers are yellowish-green catkins, while the female flowers are small, reddish spikes.

The fruit is an acorn that matures in one year. It is oval in shape and has a deep cup that covers one third of the nut.

The blackjack oak grows in dry, sandy soils that are low in nutrients. It is often found on hillsides, ridges, and slopes.

The tree is tolerant of drought and fire but cannot grow in shade. In the wild, blackjack oaks can live to be 100 years old; however, they only live for 30-40 years when they are grown in urban areas or used as street trees.