Quercus robur
FAMILY NAME Fagaceae
CHARACTERISTICS Green leaves, approximately 10cm (4in) long with 4 to 5 pairs of deep lobes, turning yellow to brown in autumn
HABITAT Most common in heavy, wet soils, lowlands, woodlands
DISTRIBUTION Most of Europe, parts of China and North America
FLOWERS AND FRUIT Only trees over 40 years old produce flowers (yellow catkins) and fruits (acorns)
A common feature in a number of mythologies, the Oak is a powerful symbol of might and endurance. Its Latin name robur means ‘strength’ and it is associated with a wide range of deities from the Greek god of the sky and lightning, Zeus, to his Norse counterpart, Thor, who also governed thunder and lightning. The Celts believed the Oak to be a tree of sacred knowledge and the druids, in particular, would carry out rites and rituals beneath its boughs. Today, the Oak is prized for its hardwood timber and is known to support more wildlife species than any other native tree, from insects to birds to mammals.