11. Oak

Common Name – English Oak

Latin Name - Quercus robus

Height - 20 to 40 Metres

The ‘English Oak’ is a large deciduous tree that grows up to 20-40m tall with a broad spreading crown that in England, has assumed the status of being a national emblem. The open canopy of this tree is beneficial in allowing light to penetrate through to the woodland floor and as such, allows the likes of bluebells and primroses to flourish. Whilst many trees will have already burst into leaf the Oak is much latter around the middle of May. The flowers of the tree are long and yellow hanging catkins and although the fruits that are commonly known as ‘Acorns’  never generally get the chance to germinate as they are rich food source, eaten by many wild creatures including jays, mice and squirrels.