Dwarf Chinquapin Oak - Quercus prinoides

Native to Illinois but parts farther east and south of Cook County. Its Latin name is from its resemblance to Quercus prinus, Rock Chestnut Oak, and has only slightly lobed leaves. May also be called Dwarf Chestnut Oak but more closely related to Chinquapin.

Features: This is an unusual small native oak that will often grow as a multi-stemmed shrub and produces small sweet acorns after only 3-4 years.  Like all oaks, it is a host to many butterfly and moth caterpillars that eat the foliage, and acorns feed the squirrels and more.

Does not like competition from taller trees and for soil, it requires sandy or even rocky and is far less tolerant of clay.

Light: Prefers full sun

Soil: Dry to medium

Height: 10-20 feet

Width: 10-20 feet

Blooms: April

See more information and photos at: Illinois Wildflowers and NC State Extension

Photo credits: NC State Extension, Illinois Wildflowers