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Oak

The majestic Oak is the national tree of England, and has been a feature of the British Isles landscape for millenia.

Average height 14-26 metres

Broadleaf, Deciduous

Latin name; Quercus robur

Distribution; Common in native broadleaf woodlands. Especially in the South East of England & Midlands.

The flowers in spring are known as catkins and in Autumn their fruits are hard nuts known as acorns.

Sudden Oak death is a water mould and can kill oak trees in weeks. Another disease 'Acute Oak decline' has been reported in the UK since 2009 and can kill mature Oaks.

The leaves and acorns of the Oak are poisonous to livestock and horses due to tannic acid. However pigs can feast on them to their hearts content.

Oak for centuries was the wood of choice for ship building, furniture, and timber framed buildings. Even today it is a valued timbner due to its hardness and resistance to insect and fungal attacks. Whisky barrels are use in wine, sherry, brandy and whisky production.

In Norse mythology the Oak was sacred to the thunder god, Thor.

In Sherwood Forest an 800-1000 year old Oak, the Major Oak is considered to have been the main hideout for Robin Hood.

At Boscobel House stands the Royal Oak.In 1651King Charles II hid in the tree from the Roundheads after the Battle of Worcester.

Credit: NJ Pringle