Black Oak

Quercus Velutina

A medium sized, attractive shade tree native to southern Ontario and eastern USA. Leaves are similar to Northern Red Oak but with deeper sinuses. Almost black bark as the tree matures. Attractive shiny, dark-green, bristle-tipped, lobed leaves and acorns that provide valuable food for local wildlife. Trees have both male and female flowers on the same tree and are wind pollinated though they still attract bees and other insects. Yields better seed crops when more than one tree is present through cross pollination. Can produce hybrid seeds if planted near other oak species from red oak group. Prune in late winter or early spring to avoid transmission of pathogens.