Quercus prinus L. Basket Oak or Chestnut Oak
Deciduous, native to eastern United States, often found on dry rocky soils and sometimes also called Rock Oak. The wood, which is hard and easily split, has been used for construction, cooperage, wheels, fences, fuel and basket making. Height to 30m (100ft). The flowers appear with young leaves in April, earlier than most oaks. The acorns are 2.5-3.7cm (1-1½in) in length and fall in October. Leaves resemble the leaves of the Sweet Chestnut (Castanea sativa) which gives this oak its alternative common name. They are 15-20cm (6-8in) long, evenly lobed, dark green above and silvery white and densely pubescent below. The bark is nearly black and deeply ridged. Z5.