Acorn

Scientific Name: Quercus spp.

Category: tree

Acorn

Brief Description

The nut of the oak tree, consisting of a woody cup-like base holding a single seed.

Characteristics

Comprises a smooth, oval nut (the glans) attached to a textured, scaly cup (the cupule). Colors range from green to rich brown as they mature.

Habitat

Found in temperate and subtropical forests, woodlands, and urban areas wherever oak trees grow.

When to Find It

Typically drop from trees in autumn, from September through November.

Conservation Status

N/A

Ecological Role

Serve as a critical food source for numerous wildlife species, including squirrels, jays, deer, and wild turkeys, and help in oak forest regeneration.

Easily Confused With

Certain nuts from other hardwood trees like chestnuts or hazelnuts, but acorns are distinctly seated within a scaly or bumpy cap.

Observation Tips

Look under or around mature oak trees during autumn when they fall in large quantities.

Interesting Facts

A single mature oak tree can produce up to 10,000 acorns in a single mast year.