White Oak

Latin Name: Quercus Alba

French name: Chêne Blanc

What does this species need to thrive?: White Oak prefer to live in full sun but can handle the shade and can live in a wide range texture of soil and will grow up to 35 meters tall. The White Oak prefers slightly acidic to neutral, deep, moist and well-drained soil.

Does this tree grow better around some plants than others?: Oak trees prefer to be in the sun but it is more shade tolerant in youth and has less tolerant as the tree grows larger. White Oak trees like to have a lot of little trees to grow under it like wild Sarsaparilla grows in an area with a lot of pines. Aralia Nudicaulis are puffy white globes that grow blue and purple berries and Sarsaparilla is good because it fills in under the tree.

What animals use this tree for food/habitat?: Animals that live and eat things from White Oak trees are squirrels, chipmunks, mice, blue jays and insects.

Is this tree native to north America? What can you find about its history: White Oak is native to Canada and can be found in Ontario and Quebec. The White Oak forever earned its place in history books when it was combined with other Oak lumber and even in World War ll, White Oak served our country as the keels of mine sweepers and patrol boats.

How big does this species grow: The White Oak tree is 35 meters tall and 1.2 to 2.5 centimeters long.

Does this tree have any traditional uses in indigenous cultures?: The acorns that grow on White Oak trees are edible and are an important source of food for many Aboriginal people. Usually the kernel acorn was dried, ground up and added to cakes and soups. The wood was used for making boats and ships since it is a very strong wood.