22. Quercus shumardii – Shumard Red Oak
Scientific Name: Quercus shumardii
Nativity: Atlantic Coast
Interesting Info:
Also called the swamp red oak or spotted oak. It is valued for its excellence as a shade tree as well as food source for birds and mammals. It is also a common timber tree, used for cabinetry, flooring, interior trim, etc. It is often marketed as red oak, but is actually superior to other red oak species. It is the largest of all southern oak species, it was named for the Texas state geologist Benjamin Franklin Shumard. It is a very adaptable species that does well in areas will compacted soil, poor drainage, and air pollution. Galls may be used as a powerful astringent in the treatment of dysentery or haemorrhages. The seeds have also been roasted and utilized as a coffee substitute– but are toxic when raw.
DBH: 2.4 inches