The Overcup Oak (Quercus lyrata) is a medium to large-sized deciduous tree native to the southeastern United States. Overall, the Overcup Oak is valued for its adaptability to wetter soils, distinctive leaf shape, and ecological importance in southeastern ecosystems. It serves both practical and aesthetic purposes in landscapes and natural habitats.
Leaves: The leaves are simple, alternate, and quite distinctive in shape, resembling a lyre or fiddle with deep lobes and rounded sinuses. They are glossy green above and lighter green beneath, turning yellow to yellow-brown in the fall.
Bark: The bark of Overcup Oaks is light gray to brown, shallowly fissured, and scaly with age.
Acorns: Like all oaks, Overcup Oaks produce acorns, which are nearly completely enclosed in a fringed cupule (hence the name “Overcup”). The acorns are relatively large and ripen in one season.
Wood: The wood of Overcup Oak is heavy, strong, and durable. It is used for making furniture, flooring, and construction materials.
Ecological Role: Overcup Oaks are commonly found in lowland areas, floodplains, and along streams and rivers. They are tolerant of wet soils and periodic flooding, making them valuable for stabilizing banks and providing habitat for wildlife.
Wildlife Value: The acorns of Overcup Oaks are an important food source for various wildlife species, including deer, squirrels, and birds.
Growing Conditions: Overcup Oaks prefer full sun to partial shade and moist to wet, acidic soils. They are relatively low-maintenance once established.
