Field Guide to Westford

Bear Oak

 

Quercus ilicifolia

 

Not very common in Westford, the bear oak is a small tree or a large shrub with an average height of 6 meters. Bark is dark gray and smooth on saplings but then scaly on older/larger trees.

 

Leaves: Relatively small leaves, ranging from 2-4” long, have very shallow lobes that end in an abrupt point. Dull deep green above with light gray densely packed hairs underneath. (Hairs on leaves serve to prevent transpiration through the leaves)