Water Oak
Quercus nigra
Family: Fagaceae
Natural History
Leaves of water oak | Photo credit: Chris Evans, Illinois Wildlife Action Plan, Bugwood.org
The water oak - also known as spotted oak or possum oak - is a fast grower and reproducer. Therefore, it is often the most abundant species in its stands.
It is a relatively short-lived tree compared to other oaks, and may live only 60 to 80 years.