Myrtle oak facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Myrtle oak |
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| Leaves and acorns of myrtle oak | |
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Quercus
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| Species: |
myrtifolia
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The myrtle oak (scientific name: Quercus myrtifolia) is a type of oak tree found in North America. It belongs to the beech family. You can find this tree in the southeastern parts of the United States. This includes states like Mississippi, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina. It often grows in sandy areas near the coast.
Myrtle oaks are evergreen trees, which means they keep their leaves all year round. They can grow up to 12 meters (about 40 feet) tall. In places where the soil is drier, they might grow more like a large shrub. Their leaves are special because they don't have any jagged edges or deep cuts (lobes). The top side of the leaves is smooth and hairless. The underside is also hairless, except for tiny hairs along the veins.
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Where Myrtle Oaks Grow
Myrtle oaks love warm, sunny places. They are often found in sandy soils, especially near the coast. This makes them a common sight in the southeastern United States. They can grow in different environments, from tall trees in good soil to smaller shrubs in dry, sandy spots.
What Makes Myrtle Oaks Special
Evergreen Leaves
Unlike many trees that lose their leaves in the fall, the myrtle oak keeps its green leaves all year. This helps it stay green and vibrant even in winter. Its leaves are smooth and shiny, without any teeth or lobes.
Acorns and Reproduction
Like all oaks, the myrtle oak produces acorns. These are the seeds of the tree. Acorns are an important food source for many animals, like squirrels and birds. The tree uses these acorns to make new myrtle oak trees.
Images for kids
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Myrtle oak growing as a shrub
See also
In Spanish: Quercus myrtifolia para niños
