Sawtooth Oak
Quercus acutissima
Family: Fagaceae
Leaf Type: Deciduous
Mature Height: ~12 m (~40 ft)
Fall Color: Yellow, golden-brown
Native Range: Sawtooth oaks are native to eastern Asia and Japan and, therefore, don't have a native range in North America. However, in some areas, this tree is becoming an invasive species, which means it is displacing native plants.
Features
The leaves of the sawtooth oak are unlobed with jagged teeth around the edges. The teeth have long bristles at their ends. These bristles make the leaf edges look like a saw blade which helps give the tree its name. The leaves are long, thin, and slightly spear-shaped. As with all oaks, the fruit of the sawtooth oak is an acorn. The acorns are easily recognizable by their shaggy cup. The curled scales on the top of the acorn look like hair. We recommend not sampling the fruits & nuts of the trees and plants here at Adventure Science Center.
Fun Facts
● The common name of this tree is derived from the distinct sawtooth-like edges of the leaves.
● Although the wood cracks easily, sawtooth oak wood is historically used for fence posts.
● The trees produce many acorns and were planted for wildlife consumption, but the acorns are bitter in taste.
Did you know that trees provide homes for animals, keep us cool and clean our air? Click here to learn more about the benefits that trees provide to us and our world.