The English Oak (Quercus robur) is well-known in England and has naturalized in parts of the northern U.S. and Canada. This hardwood tree, with its longevity and mass, effectively sequesters carbon dioxide and offers an appealing focal point in your yard with its distinctive leaves and broad canopy. It's prevalent across the British Isles, frequently dominating lowland woodlands or standing alone with its majestic, wide-reaching form.
Quercus robur belongs to the white oak group and features typical lobed leaves and slender 1-inch (2.5 cm) acorns, its main identification features. It's a substantial tree with a broad trunk and spreading crown, often seen in parks but suitable for larger home gardens. Caution is advised as young leaves and acorns contain gallotannin, quercitrin, and quercetin compounds, potentially causing digestive issues when consumed by grazing animals. While most reach 40–60 feet (12-18 m) in height, some ancient specimens can exceed 100 feet (30 m), and they develop a rounded, irregular crown with leaves often persisting into winter.
