The Dawes Arboretum

Common name: bluejack oak, upland willow oak

Family: Fagaceae (beech family)

Synonym: Quercus cinerea

Distribution: s.e. United States

Habitat: Well-drained sandy soils of barrens, hammocks, dunes, and upland ridges; 0-250 m

IUCN Red list: Least concern

Hardiness: USDA Zone 6

Life form: Deciduous tree

Comments: In its native habitat this is a scrubby-growing species often found in deep sandy soil. In cultivation, the tree behaves nicely growing into a medium sized (40-60' tall) tree for residential or urban landscapes. It may be one of the best kept secrets of the forest - this is a beautiful tree virtually undiscovered by urban inhabitants. At first glance this tree looks like a young live oak but closer inspection shows blueish foliage, furrowed bark and cupped leaves. Very rare in cultivation.