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Sessile Oak

Quercus petraea

The Sessile Oak is a strong tree with broad leaves. It can grow very tall and provides homes for many animals.

Habitat: Forests and woodlands

Appearance

The Sessile Oak has dark green, deeply lobed leaves that appear to attach directly to the twig without a stalk. Its bark is greyish-brown, becoming deeply fissured and rough with age, supporting a broad, majestic crown.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassMagnoliopsidaOrderFagalesFamilyFagaceaeGenusQuercus

Sessile Oak

Interesting facts

Ancient Sessile Oaks can support hundreds of different insect species!

Did you know Sessile Oak leaves flutter on the tree much longer in autumn?

Its strong wood was once used to build mighty Viking ships!

The Sessile Oak's acorns sprout without a stalk, a unique feature among oaks!

Special abilities

Sessile Oak has extensive root systems that help it withstand strong winds and access deep groundwater, keeping it stable and hydrated.

Sessile Oak produces energy-rich acorns that help it reproduce, providing vital nutrition for new saplings to grow.

Sessile Oak has tannins in its bark and leaves that help it defend against pests and diseases, making it tough and resilient.

Measurements & details

Height: 20-40 m
Canopy Spread: 15-30 m
Is Edible: Yes
Trunk Diameter: 100-300 cm
Lifespan: 500-1000 years
Fruit Type: Acorn
Growth Rate: Medium
Leaf Type: Deciduous

Ecological connections

eats

Red Squirrel

Sciurus vulgaris

Feeds on acorns, often burying them for later.

parasitizes

Common Oak Gall Wasp

Andricus kollari

Larvae develop inside galls formed on oak branches.

eaten by

Red Deer

Cervus elaphus

Browses on young leaves, twigs, and bark.

Traits

Deciduous

Discover the magic of plants that shed all their leaves during a particular season, often putting on a spectacular show of fall colors first. They get ready for a fresh start!

Broadleaf Tree

Discover magnificent trees that have wide, flat leaves, unlike the needles of pine trees! These are often the trees that change colors beautifully in autumn.

Fall Color

Witness the breathtaking transformation as leaves change from green to brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold before they fall. It's a spectacular natural art show!

Forest

These lush habitats are filled with countless trees, offering homes to a huge variety of plants and animals! Immerse yourself in the green canopy.

Longevous

Marvel at organisms that have an incredible capacity to live for a very, very long time, sometimes spanning centuries or even millennia. They are the elders of the natural world!