Quercus lyrata

Similar to post oak but the base of the leaf is more acute and narrower than that of Q. stellata. Acorns are almost completely encircled by the cap which is thought to facilitate water dispersal. White on underside of leaves. Leaves resemble Q. alba, but its a wetland species and has a narrow section near leaf base like the neck of a lyre.

Moist forests along streams, wet woods, swamps on the coastal plain, river bottoms, and low grounds that are inundated for extended periods.

All of the white oaks are heavy, very hard, and strong. The wood is subject to large shrinkage during seasoning, and extra care must be taken to avoid checking and warping. Pores of the heartwood are impervious to liquids, making white oak the only successful wood for use as tight cooperage. Large amounts of higher grades are used for bourbon barrels. The heartwood is comparatively decay resistant, more so than that of red oaks. White oaks are above average in all machining operations except shaping. All oaks in the white oak group share just about the same properties and uses. Most white oak is made into lumber for flooring, furniture, tight cooperage, millwork, timbers, handles, boxes, and crates. Perhaps the largest amounts go into high-quality flooring, barrels, kegs, and casks. It is prized for use of construction of ships and boats.