Oak Seed (Acorns)

Across much of the east coast and Midwest oak species play a keystone role in the environment. They are perhaps the most diverse group of trees on this continent. There are 27 species of oak native to Virginia where I currently live. That’s some serious diversity! Oak trees feed a vast array of wildlife through both their acorns and their leaves. Oak leaves are preferred browse for many caterpillars who in turn feed our native birds. The oak tree itself provides habitat for all sorts of life. Human beings have a long-standing tradition of utilizing acorns to make flour. Some species of oak make acorns that are well suited to pressing for cooking oils. Their potential to feed livestock in silvopasture systems is immense. Some oaks such as the classic white oak are long lived able to reach upwards of 500 years in age, while others like willow and pin oak typically don’t last more than 100 or so years. These are just a few words of praise to a magnificent group of trees that our ecosystem