Water Oak

Quercus nigra

General Information:

This tree can grow up to 80 feet tall and spread up to 60 feet wide. It blooms in April and thrives in full sun in medium to wet soils. It is commonly found in low woodland areas, floodplains, and along rivers and streams. It will drop old leaves in late fall and early winter. 

Medicinal Uses:

The galls produced by the water oak can be used for treatment of hemorrhages, chronic diarrhoea, dysentery and more. The bark has been used as an antiseptic and hemostatic to cure toothaches, gastropathies, inflammation, and healing agents for burns. 

Did You Know:

Although it is a rapid-grower, the water oak can only live between 30 and 50 years and will begin to hollow out at about 40 years old.