The Oaks 



desired in tree form. The dome is low, but exceedingly broad, 

 often spreading to twice its height and more. The trunk breaks 

 near the base into horizontal limbs of incredible length and size. 

 It seems as if the weight of these great arms must split the trunk, 

 especially under the force of the wind. But the fibre of the wood 

 is equal to resisting the strain put upon it. 



The leaves are not as showy and beautiful in form as many 

 Northern oaks. They are plain dull green beneath, lustrous 

 above, and they last all winter until the new leaves appear in the 

 spring. The acorns are dainty and dark brown, set in a hoary long- 

 stemmed, top-shaped cup. They are a profuse crop, and very 

 sweet and pleasant to taste. The Indians gathered them "to 

 thicken their venison-soop " with, and also cooked them in other 

 ways. "They likewise draw an Oil, very pleasant and whole- 

 some, little inferior to that of almonds." So wrote Mark Catesby, 

 a century and a half ago. 



Live-oak timber ranks highest among the white oaks. Ship- 

 building depended upon it in this country until the era of steel 

 construction. Reservation of tracts of these trees in western 

 Florida for the use of the navy was made in the early days. 

 "Knees of oak" still brace the sides of vessels, if they can be 

 obtained. The beauty of the wood when polished would make 

 it in great demand for furniture and for decorative purposes, 

 except that it is extremely difficult to work, and it splits easily 

 when nailed. The short trunk prevents the getting out of timbers 

 of large size. 



As an avenue and shade tree the live oak deserves especial 

 attention. It grows rapidly and is easily transplanted. It is 

 not particular as to soils. The trees are becoming scarce in the 

 wild. They should be saved for the landscape's sake and planting 

 should go steadily on. To our Northern poet, tliese trees 



"Stand like Druids of old, with voices sad and prophetic; 

 Stand like harpers hoar, with beards that rest on their bosoms." 



Live oaks without their draperies of moss would lose much of 

 their charm. However, there is a great difference of opinion as 

 to the beauty of the moss. It generally looks well in a picture, 

 but some people think its grey straggling clusters give the oaks 

 an unkempt and uncomfortable look, as if a parasite were choking 

 its host. 



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