Family: Fagaceae
Author: Wangenh.
Bibliography: Beytr. Teut. Forstwiss.: 78 (1787)
Year: 1787
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Quercus
Vegetable: False
Observations: C. & E. U.S.A.
Description
The Post oak, scientifically recognized as Quercus stellata, is a prominent species belonging to the Fagaceae family. Native to the central and eastern regions of the United States, this resilient oak tree enjoys widespread recognition for its distinctive characteristics and ecological importance.
Post oaks thrive primarily in well-drained, sandy or rocky soils often found in upland areas. They are particularly adapted to survive in drought-prone environments, making them a quintessential component of dry forests and woodlands. With their robust and gnarled branches, Post oaks contribute significantly to the landscape, offering both aesthetic value and habitat for wildlife.
The leaves of the Post oak are uniquely shaped, resembling a cross or a “T,” which is a distinctive feature setting it apart from other oaks. The leathery texture and deep lobes of the leaves provide them with a degree of resistance against pests and diseases, ensuring the tree’s longevity and vitality. In fall, the leaves turn a rich brown, contributing to the seasonal tapestry of colors in the forests where they reside.
The acorns of the Post oak serve as a crucial food source for a variety of animals, including deer, squirrels, and birds. These acorns are relatively small but are produced in ample quantities, ensuring the propagation of the species and the sustenance of local fauna.
Historically documented by the botanist Wangenh. in 1787, Quercus stellata has proven its durability and ecological significance over centuries. This oak is not just a survivor but a keystone species in many habitats, playing an essential role in maintaining the ecological balance.
In managed landscapes and restoration projects, the Post oak is valued for its hardiness and minimal maintenance requirements. It is often chosen for its ability to withstand harsh conditions and its contribution to biodiversity. Moreover, the wood of the Post oak, known for its strength and density, is utilized in various applications, including furniture and fencing, though it is less commercially valued compared to other oak species.
In conclusion, the Post oak, or Quercus stellata, stands as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of native plant species. Its characteristic leaves, ecological role, and historical significance highlight its importance within the forests of the central and eastern United States.
Common Names
Eng: post oak, iron oak
En: Post oak, Iron Oak
Ar: سنديان نجمي
Zh: 鐵橡
Cs: Dub hvězdovitý
Hu: Keresztkaréjú tölgy
Lv: Zvaigžņu ozols
Ru: Дуб звёздчатый
Zh-tw: 鐵橡
Synonyms
- Quercus stellata f. laevis (Trel.)
- Quercus stellata f. mollissima (Trel.)
- Quercus alba var. minor (Marshall)
- Quercus villosa (Walter)
- Quercus stellata f. oblonga (Trel.)
- Quercus obtusiloba (Michx.)
- Quercus stellata f. tonsa (Trel.)
- Quercus gonoloba (Raf.)
- Quercus stellata f. typica (Trel.)
- Quercus stellata f. cruciformis (Trel.)
- Quercus stellata f. heterophylla (Ettingsh. & Krašan)
- Quercus stellata f. reducta (Trel.)
- Quercus stellata var. rufescens (Sarg.)
- Quercus stellata var. parviloba (Sarg.)
- Quercus stellata f. quadrata (Trel.)
- Quercus stellata var. anomala (Sarg.)
- Quercus stellata f. sterrettii (Trel.)
- Quercus lobulata (Sol. ex Sm.)
- Quercus stellata f. houbae (Trel.)
- Quercus stellata var. palmeri (Sarg.)
- Quercus stellata var. floridana (A.DC.)
- Quercus heteroloba (Raf.)
- Quercus stellata f. rufescens ((Sarg.) Trel.)
- Quercus fusca (Raf.)
- Quercus floridana (Shuttlew. ex A.DC.)
Distribution
- Alabama (native)
- Arkansas (native)
- Connecticut (native)
- Delaware (native)
- Florida (native)
- Georgia (native)
- Illinois (native)
- Indiana (native)
- Iowa (native)
- Kansas (native)
- Kentucky (native)
- Louisiana (native)
- Maryland (native)
- Masachusettes (native)
- Mississippi (native)
- Missouri (native)
- New Jersey (native)
- New York (native)
- North Carolina (native)
- Ohio (native)
- Oklahoma (native)
- Pennsylvania (native)
- Rhode I. (native)
- South Carolina (native)
- Tennessee (native)
- Texas (native)
- Virginia (native)
- West Virginia (native)
Additional Images
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Leaf
Taken Oct 20, 2021 by Irmgard Groß (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 8, 2022 by u u (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 20, 2021 by Irmgard Groß (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 25, 2015 by Tela Botanica − Alain BIGOU (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 25, 2015 by Tela Botanica − Alain BIGOU (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken May 20, 2020 by Aaron Harp (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 25, 2021 by Rita Dowd (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 9, 2022 by L P (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 25, 2015 by Tela Botanica − Alain BIGOU (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 20, 2021 by Irmgard Groß (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Jun 9, 2022 by L P (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 9, 2021 by BouncyLlama (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 20, 2021 by Irmgard Groß (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 11, 2022 by S Kessock (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 11, 2022 by S Kessock (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken May 20, 2020 by Aaron Harp (cc-by-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/8879961)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:216416-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Quercus stellata Wangenh.)
Specifications
Growth form: Single Stem
Growth habit: Tree
Growth rate: Slow
Growth
Ph maximum: 6.5
Ph minimum: 4.8