This large, hardy native tree is one of the most prolific members of the oak-hickory upland forests of our region. It is also one of the longest-lived trees you'll find in the Eastern U.S.

Some of the white oaks in your own neighborhood may have been alive at the time when the “native oak” was first designated as the Illinois State Tree, in 1907, by vote of school children. A more recent vote in 1973 narrowed the species down to the white oak, Quercus alba.

Quite a number of oaks growing in our region have outlived human lifespans two or three times over. Or more. Among the record-breakers are oaks that have survived over 500 years!

The Great Lakes region has both white and red oaks. White oaks are slightly larger, reaching a height of 100 feet. Both kinds of oaks are valued for their attractive crowns and ample shade. The leaves of white oaks have rounded lobes, while red oaks have pointed leaves and slightly darker bark.

Oaks are quite common along streets and in parks. The acorns of oak trees are prized by squirrels, birds, and other wildlife, and in old growth forests, oaks are extremely valuable for animals that shelter in holes.