The Willow Oak is a long lived (to 300 years) member of the red oak family native to the southeastern U.S. It grows in or near bottom lands and upland streams, usually preferring a sandy knoll where its roots are slightly elevated above permanently saturated soils. It grows to 90 foot here in Southwest Louisiana.
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| Dark Green Late September Leaves and Acorns |
A deciduous tree losing 100% of its leaves (shaped like willow tree leaves) during winter here, but no trouble to keep tidy because its leaves are thin, narrow, and decay quickly much like grass. A very nice alternative to the Live Oak if you have the room, as it becomes massive with time. The fall Willow Oak acorn crop is a valuable fall food source for squirrels, cattle, white tailed deer, and jays.
The tree pictured is approx. 25' tall @ 9 years old, and a real joy to witness in the spring, as each tree varies in leaf color due to changes in soil, some in different shades of green, others orange red. The willow oak is a quality tree that is easily distinguishable from look alike trees of lesser desirability.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quercus_phellos
