Shumard Oak

It is also a valuable lumber oak. It was named for Benjamin Franklin Shumard (1820-69), state geologist of Texas. This deciduous tree, sometimes called the Texas Oak, has small, usually 5-lobed leaves, small acorns, and hairy red buds (instead of hairless brown). Shumard Oak trees have shiny, dark green leaves, and the bark is gray and smooth. A handsome shade tree, suggested as a substitute for Scarlet Oak, though not so hardy northward. It grows moderately fast and produces acorns every 2 to 4 years that are a bonus since they can be used by wildlife for food. The Shumard Oak tree, Quercus shumardii, is one of the largest southern red oak trees. Shumard Oak trees tolerate poor soil and drought conditions, especially after they are established. In urban areas, this tree has been embraced as a hardy city species. The outstanding deep crimson-red fall color produced by the Shumard Oak is an excellent reason to plant this species. ... get more information