HEIGHT 80–130 ft (25–40 m)
TYPE Deciduous
OCCURRENCE Europe, W. Asia, N. Africa
Also known as pedunculate oak, this tree has a spreading habit and smooth shoots. Oak forests were once a valuable resource for industrial and naval activities. Its bark is also used in the tanning industry. A famous heritage tree in Britain is “The Major” in Sherwood Forest, which is estimated to be 800 years old; legend has it that Robin Hood hid in this tree. BARK Grayish brown, vertically ridged. LEAF Alternate, obovate, with 5–9 lobes, dark green above, bluegreen beneath. FLOWER Males in drooping catkins; females inconspicuous, on short stalks. FRUIT Ovoid, long-stalked acorns, one-third to one-half enclosed in a cup, initially green, ripening to brown in first year.
