Common Name: Willow Oak

Scientific Name: Quercus phellos

Family: Fagaceae

Type: Deciduous

Habitat: Woodlands, Near Ponds, Swamps, Rivers, or Streams

Native: Yes

Height: Up to 75 feet

Light: Full sun to partial shade

Soil: Well drained, Moist, Average

Description: Willow Oak is a native, deciduous oak tree that can be found growing naturally in woodlands near ponds, swamps, rivers, or streams. Although Willow Oak can adapt to a variety of soil conditions, Willow Oak prefers to grow in moist, well-drained, loamy soil and full sun to dappled shade. Unlike most oak trees, which can be identified by their lobed leaves, Willow Oak can be identified by its narrow, willow-like leaves, its gray-brown bark, and its small acorns. These photos of a Willow Oak were taken near Mahan Lane at Creasey Mahan Nature Preserve.