Netleaf oak (Quercus rugosa, Anales Ci. Nat. 3: 275 (1801))

Family: Fagaceae

Author: Née

Bibliography: Anales Ci. Nat. 3: 275 (1801)

Year: 1801

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Quercus

Vegetable: Unknown

Observations: Arizona to Texas and Honduras

Description

The Netleaf Oak, scientifically known as Quercus rugosa, is a distinctive tree native to a diverse range of regions extending from Arizona and Texas in the United States down through Honduras. As a member of the Fagaceae family, this species shares many characteristics typical of oak trees while also boasting unique features that set it apart.

Identified and classified by Née in 1801, as documented in Anales Ci. Nat., this oak tree is distinctive for its rugged, leathery leaves that have a net-like venation pattern, hence the name “Netleaf Oak.” The leaves, which give the tree its characteristic appearance, are generally thick and can vary in color from deep green to a rustic brown, depending on the season and environmental conditions.

This tree thrives in a variety of climate zones, showcasing its adaptability. In the United States, Quercus rugosa can be found predominantly in the southwestern states, specifically Arizona and Texas, where it often inhabits mountainous regions. Its reach extends further south into Central America, illustrating a broad ecological tolerance that includes different altitudinal zones and varying precipitation levels.

The Netleaf Oak plays a significant role in its native habitats, offering ecological benefits such as providing shelter and food for wildlife. Its acorns serve as a critical food source for various animals, while the tree itself offers nesting sites and cover for numerous bird species. Moreover, its robust nature makes it a critical component in erosion control and soil stabilization in many of the areas where it is found.

Overall, Quercus rugosa is a resilient and ecologically significant species that demonstrates remarkable adaptability through its wide geographical distribution and unique morphological traits.

Common Names

Eng: netleaf oak
En: Netleaf oak
Af: Immergroeneik

Synonyms

• Quercus decipiens (M.Martens & Galeotti)
• Quercus dugesii ((Trel.) A.Nelson)
• Quercus durangensis (Trel.)
• Quercus vellifera (Trel.)
• Quercus reticulata f. crenata ((Trel.) A.Camus)
• Quercus rhodophlebia f. applanata (Trel.)
• Quercus rhodophlebia (Trel.)
• Quercus reticulata var. typica (A.Camus)
• Quercus rhodophlebia f. typica (A.Camus)
• Quercus mellifera (M. Ocampo)
• Quercus reticulata var. squarrosa (Trel.)
• Quercus reticulata f. concava ((Trel.) A.Camus)
• Quercus diversicolor (Trel.)
• Quercus uhdeana (Trel.)
• Quercus diversicolor var. socorronis (Trel.)
• Quercus diversicolor var. mearnsii (Trel.)
• Quercus reticulata (Bonpl.)
• Quercus innuncupata (Trel.)
• Quercus suchiensis (E.F.Warb.)
• Quercus purpusii (Trel.)
• Quercus reticulata f. longa (Trel.)
• Quercus reticulata f. dugesii (Trel.)
• Quercus reticulata f. applanata ((Trel.) A.Camus)
• Quercus reticulata subsp. rhodophlebia ((Trel.) A.Camus)
• Quercus macrophylla var. rugosa ((Née) Wenz.)
• Quercus reticulata var. conglomerata ((Trel.) A.Camus)
• Quercus rhodophlebia f. crenata (Trel.)
• Quercus rhodophlebia f. concava (Trel.)

Distribution

• Arizona (native)
• Guatemala (native)
• Honduras (native)
• Mexico Central (native)
• Mexico Gulf (native)
• Mexico Northeast (native)
• Mexico Northwest (native)
• Mexico Southeast (native)
• Mexico Southwest (native)
• New Mexico (native)
• Texas (native)

Additional Images

Leaf

Taken Nov 27, 2019 by Manning Antonio (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 21, 2019 by Manning Antonio (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 21, 2019 by Manning Antonio (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 11, 2020 by Escobar Juarez Maria Daniela (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 21, 2022 by correa maria (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Aug 20, 2022 by Pedro Gaspar (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 9, 2019 by Leon McNay Defty (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Sep 9, 2019 by Leon McNay Defty (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 21, 2022 by correa maria (cc-by-sa)

© 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.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/8386328)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:216359-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Quercus rugosa Née)

Specifications

Growth