Willow Oak Leaf

Scientific Name: Quercus phellos

Category: tree

Willow Oak Leaf

Brief Description

A single, lance-shaped deciduous leaf that has turned a golden-brown autumn color.

Characteristics

Linear to lanceolate shape, approximately 2 to 5 inches long, with an entire (smooth) margin and a bristle tip at the apex. Unlike many other oaks, it lacks lobes.

Habitat

Found in moist soils of bottomlands, floodplains, and along streams, but also widely planted as an urban shade tree.

When to Find It

Autumn (for the yellow/brown color shown). Leaves typically emerge in spring and drop in late fall.

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Ecological Role

Produces small acorns that are a vital food source for squirrels, wild turkeys, ducks, and deer. Serves as a host plant for various butterfly and moth larvae.

Easily Confused With

Shingle Oak (Quercus imbricaria) leaves are broader and have a fuzzy underside; Willow (Salix spp.) leaves usually Have finely serrated edges, whereas Willow Oak has smooth edges.

Observation Tips

Look for these trees in city parks or southeastern US forests. The leaves are easily identified on the ground in fall by their unique 'willow-like' narrow shape despite being from an oak tree.

Interesting Facts

Despite its narrow leaves that look like a willow, it is a member of the red oak group. It is one of the most popular ornamental shade trees in the southern United States due to its fast growth and hardy nature.