320 



FOREST TREES OF THE PACIFIC SLOPE. 



The shrubby form of this oak occurring on high mountains has been 

 described as a distinct variety, Quercus dcnsiftora echinoides (R. Br. Campst.) 

 Sargent, but it is believed not to be worthy of separation, because it is con- 

 nected with the larger tree forms by numerous intermediate ones. Its leaves 

 are from 1$ to 2i inches long, smooth on their upper surfaces and white-hairy 

 beneath, and the margins are entire or with very indistinct teeth. Acorns are 







Fig. 150. — Quercus densiflora. 



somewhat smaller than those of the tree forms and the scales of the cups 

 are also longer. These differences seem to be due to high altitude and 

 exposure. Wood dense and fine-grained, very hard, firm, and somewhat 

 brittle (though brittleness varies with age), light brown, faintly tinged with 

 red. The quality is suitable for agricultural implements and for finishing and 

 furniture lumber. It is employed more generally for firewood. 



