Turkey Oak

About the Tree

First recorded as introduced in 1735, but could have been brought in beforehand.

The alternate leaves are 5-10 cm long, with 7-8 various sizes of pointed lobes on each side.
It is regarded by some as a weed or pest species as it is fast growing and will hybridise with the
English oak. In many Nature Reserves and woodlands it is removed. It is a graceful tree and can be
recognised in the winter by the long twisting whiskers surrounding the buds on its twigs. The
acorns, which are surrounded by a mossy cup, take two years to mature compared to the English
oak which ripen in one season.

This species attains a great size. Its wood is of excellent quality and is beautifully mottled. Of this
kind is the oak of Holland and the Sardinian oak. The former, like all trees of humid soils and
climates, grows with straight fibre and has soft wood which is easily worked. 

About the Wood

Regarded as having no economic value, but…

It is not so strong or durable as the common oak, but under the name of wainscot, it is extensively
used for interior finishing and for cabinet work.