White Oak
Quercus alba
Family: Fagaceae
Natural History
Leaves and fruits of white oak | Photo credit: Paul Wray, Iowa State University, Bugwood.org
The white oak is an outstanding tree, and is widespread across eastern North America. It is a slow-growing and long-lived species, with specimens known to have lived for more than 600 years.
White oak is the state tree of three states: Illinois, Connecticut, and Maryland. Its symbolism of age and prestige is further honored on the reverse side of the Connecticut state quarter.