Quercus bicolor
Similar to Q. alba, swamp white oak is notable for its timber and ecological benefit. The wood is near indistinguishable to white oak, and both are praised for their quality and workability. In contrast to Q. alba, however, swamp white oak prefers lowlands and moister soils (it’s in the name!). Speaking of names, Q. bicolor‘s name is in referenced to the dual colors found on the upper and bottom portions of the leaves.
Family: Fagaceae
Foliage: Deciduous
Mature height range: 60-80 ft.
Light exposure: Full
Soil preference: Moist
Tolerance: Tolerates a variety of sites, including those that are drier or wetter– but does best in the latter; more tolerant to urban environments than other oaks
Wildlife: Acorns are consumed by birds, mammals, and insects; browsing by mammals; larval host plant for imperial moth (Eacles imperialis), banded hairstreak (Satyrium calanus), Edward’s hairstreak (Satyrium edwardsii), and many more