Chinkapin Oak (Quercus muehlenbergii)
 
The chinkapin oak is a medium to large deciduous tree native to eastern and central North America, typically reaching 50 to 70 feet in height. It has a broad, rounded crown with oblong, sharply serrated leaves that turn yellow-brown in autumn. Its bark is light gray and flaky, giving the tree a distinctive texture.
 
This oak produces small, sweet acorns that mature in one season, providing food for wildlife including squirrels, deer, and birds. It grows well in well-drained soils and is particularly tolerant of limestone and alkaline conditions.
 
Celebrated for its adaptability and ornamental appeal, the chinkapin oak is an excellent choice for parks, large yards, and urban landscapes. Its combination of durable growth, wildlife support, and elegant form makes it a reliable and attractive native oak.