Plant · GBIF taxon 2878213
bur oak
Quercus macrocarpaAlso known as Burr Oak, Mossycup Oak
Bur oak is a broad-crowned prairie tree with deeply ridged bark and large acorns seated in conspicuously fringed cups. Thick bark, deep roots, and drought tolerance help mature trees persist through grassland fire and harsh weather.
Prairie OakFringed AcornsFire Resistant
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Photosynthesis; roots absorb water and mineral nutrients
Predators
- Acorn weevils
- Deer
- Leaf-feeding caterpillars
ThreatsSavanna conversion, oak wilt, soil compaction, severe drought, and invasive pests
HabitatsOak savannas, prairie margins, floodplains, open woodland, and dry uplands
Life spanOften 200 to 300 years, with exceptional trees living longer
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyFagaceae
- SpeciesQuercus macrocarpa
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Protect the root zone and leave acorns available for wildlife and natural regeneration.
Responsible observation
- Acorns: Look for a deep cup bordered by a shaggy fringe.
- Bark: Notice the unusually thick corky ridges on mature trunks and branches.
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