Oak, genus of about 450 species of trees and shrubs in the beech family (Fagaceae), distributed throughout the north temperate zone and at high altitudes in the tropics. Oak species are characterized by alternate, simple, deciduous or evergreen leaves with lobed, toothed, or entire margins.

A visual identification guide to oak trees, including pictures of oak leaves, bark, and acorns to assist you in identifying the correct type of oak tree.

Welcome to Oaks of China! The Quercus genus (Oaks) is one of the most diverse and ecologically important tree genera of the Northern Hemisphere, with high species diversity in North America and South-East Asia.

Oaks appear so often in the story of humanity that it could scarcely have been written without them - literally. From as early as the 4th century, ink in much of the world was made from oak galls, or “oak apples”, formed when a wasp’s eggs are laid in oak leaves.

Oak trees are found throughout the world in a variety of habitats, but they are most widely distributed in North America and Asia. These tall and beautiful trees have a variety of uses among both humans and various forms of wildlife.

Oak is prized wood for construction because of its strength, elasticity, durability, attractive grain, and resistance to pest species.