Quercus macrocarpa, also known as Bur Oak, Mossycup Oak or Mossycup White Oak, is part of the white oak family. They grace the landscapes of Eastern and Midwestern United States as well as south-central Canada, and is also known as the . Notably large and formidable, it grows up to 100-130 ft in height with a trunk diameter of 10 ft, presenting a robust and majestic sight.
Bur Oak is renowned for its longevity, with an average life span of 200-300 years, sometimes even reaching 400 years. Its medium gray, rugged bark and its proclivity to grow in open spaces give it a distinct personality. Cultivated extensively for use in gardens, parks, and as a pillar of urban street-scapes, this oak is a durable tree known for its resilience and speedy growth.
Beyond its outstanding adaptability to diverse climates, Bur Oak serves as a massive shade tree with an impressive tolerance to prolonged drought. It is especially recognized for its distinctive acorns, whose cups are covered with a mossy scale near the rim, contributing to its common name.
