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Shumard Oak
The Shumard Oak tree, Quercus shumardii, is one of the largest southern red oak trees. It grows moderately fast and produces acorns every 2 to 4 years that are a bonus since they can be used by wildlife for food. A handsome shade tree, suggested as a substitute for Scarlet Oak, though not so hardy northward. It was named for Benjamin Franklin Shumard (1820-69), state geologist of Texas. This deciduous tree, sometimes called the Texas Oak, has small, usually 5-lobed leaves, small acorns, and hairy red buds (instead of hairless brown). Shumard Oak trees have shiny, dark green leaves, and the bark is gray and smooth. Shumard Oak trees tolerate poor soil and drought conditions, especially after they are established. The outstanding deep crimson-red fall color produced by the Shumard Oak is an excellent reason to plant this species. In urban areas, this tree has been embraced as a hardy city species. It is also a valuable lumber oak. ... details
Black Cottonwood The Black Cottonwood, 'Populus trichocarpa', is the largest of the American poplars. It is also known also as balsam cottonwood, western balsam poplar, and California poplar. The Black Cottonwood prefers moist sites. Many kinds of wildlife use the foliage, twigs, and buds for food, and the tree is planted for shade and in windbreaks and shelterbelts. Its dark green leaves contrast beautifully with its white trunk. This tree will become more drought tolerant when it is established. The leaf buds, as they swell in the spring, and the young leaves have a pleasing fragrance of balsam. The fragrance is especially pronounced as the leaves unfold. |
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