Quercus marilandica (Blackjack Oak)

Blackjack oak is a slow-growing deciduous tree of the central and eastern United States. It occurs on dry ridges, woodland margins and barrens, including sites where many other trees are scarce. Its often contorted branches support wedge-shaped leaves with three shallow, bristle-tipped lobes near their broad ends. The acorns mature in their second year and are partly enclosed by cups with loose, hairy scales. Photographed in Virginia.