Quercus macrocarpa (Fr: chêne à gros fruits | En: Bur oak)

Description:  

The Bur oak is a truly majestic tree, in open habitats it can become a sprawling giant and is our oak species most associated with open woodlands, savannas and alvar habitats, in fact in it is the dominant tree species in northern oak savannas. Along the Ottawa shoreline, savannas formerly were present, with remnants can be found in the giant Champlain oaks in the Champlain park neighbourhood of Ottawa. Indeed it is a common tree all along Lac Deschênes species typical of bur oak savannas can be found. 

It is a hardy tree than can tolerate drought conditions quite well. It is also quite adapted to fire which is the reason it has its thick cord-like bark and trunk burls where new shoots would grow if it got burned. While you probably dont have to worry about forest fires, its hardiness does help it thrive in urban areas, where it makes a great tree as long as there is space for it to grow.

The bur oak also has distinctive acorns that can resemble a bur, this is where it gets its name. These acorns are the largest of any species in Canada and it is the reason for the scientific name macrocarpa being "big seed".

Be it the leaves, nesting habitat for birds or giant acorns, this tree is a true powerhouse for supporting wildlife. 

Height: up to 30 metres

Habitat: open woodlands, savannas, alvars

Sun requirements: full sun

Moisture requirements: dry to moderate

Soil requirements: neutral to  alkaline