Bur Oak

If you are looking for a large shade tree to plant (assuming you have enough space for that!), a great option may be the bur oak (Quercus macrocarpa). Also known as the mossy cup oak, this tree is native to moderate-rainfall area in North America, from the eastern edge of the Great Plains and east into the upper Midwest.

The scientific name refers to the very large acorns the tree produces (macro = large, carpa = seed). These almost-golf ball sized acorns have a fringed cap, referred to in the common name “mossy cap”. Interestingly, these acorns are one of the few that can be safely eaten by humans without first soaking out the tannins; they have a texture and taste somewhat like water chestnuts. These big seeds are great food for all sorts of wildlife.

The tree is upright in form, often needing minimal pruning to achieve strong structure. In time, they can become quite tall (up to 90 feet), and the canopy tends to broaden once they have reached mature size. The bark is rough and furrowed and the leaves are large stereotypical oak leaves. They tolerate our high pH soils reasonably well and are known to grow deeper roots than many other trees that are native to wetter soils.

Like many oak species, bur oaks are an ecosystem onto themselves. Many insects and larger animals make their homes on and in the tree, typically with no or very minimal downside to the tree.

Contact us to find out more about our Albuquerque tree removal services.