OAK. 291 
with longitudinal fissures and of a whitish gray color, whence 
its name. It is also conspicuous from its holding many of its 
dead withered leaves until nearly spring, and in this respect it 
differs from the Bur Oak, to which it is closely allied but which 
sheds all its leaves in autumn. 
Distribution—From southern Maine westward through On- 
tario to southern and central Minnesota and eastern Kansas, 
south to Florida and Texas. In Minnesota frequent in che 
southeastern and central parts of the state. 
Propagation—The acorns of the White Oak naturally start 
into growth in the first of autumn, and often form roots several 
inches long by the time the ground freezes. In consequence of 
this there is but a short time in which to sow them, and this 
should be done as soon as they can be gathered in autumn or 
if planted later great pains must be taken not to break the 
radicle which will probably have pushed out. The seeds require 
only ordinary care to secure a good stand if properly managed. 
Propertics of wood.—Strong, very heavy, hard, tough, close 
grained, durable in contact with soil although liable to check 
unless carefully seasoned; color light brown with thin light 
brown sapwood. Specific gravity 0.747; weight of a cubic foot 
46.35 pounds. 
Uses.—The White Oak is highly esteemed as an ornamental 
tree on account of its sturdiness, longevity and magnificent 
spreading form, although it is seldom planted on account of 
its slow growth; one of our hardiest trees, although it will not 
endure as much drouth as the Bur Oak or White Elm. The 
wood is of great value on account of its adaptability to many 
purposes where a tough, strong, close grained wood is needed. 
It is largely used in ship building, in construction, in cooper- 
age, for casks, barrels, kegs, tubs, pails and measures (large 
quantities being exported to Europe in the form of staves), in 
the manufacture of agricultural implements, carriages and 
baskets, for flooring and the interior finishing of houses, in furni- 
ture and cabinet making, tool handles and jor railway ties, fence 
posts and fuel. 
Quercus platanoides. Swamp White Oak. 
Leaves obovate or oblong-obovate, coarsely sinuately toothed 
or sometimes lobed, dark green above and usually densely 
white-tomentose beneath, except on foliage that is much shaded. 
