Sessile Oak | Quercus petraea - Height 350-370cm - Girth 14-16cm -30lt

Quercus petraea, commonly known as Sessile Oak or Durmast Oak, is a prominent and majestic deciduous tree native to the British Isles and much of Europe. Renowned for its robust stature and longevity, it typically reaches heights of 20-40 metres with a broad, spreading crown, providing a striking silhouette in the landscape. The tree's bark is deeply fissured and grey-brown, giving it a rugged, textured appearance.

The leaves of Quercus petraea are distinctively lobed, with each lobe rounded and separated by deep sinuses. Unlike its close relative, the Pedunculate Oak (Quercus robur), the Sessile Oak's leaves are attached directly to the twigs without a stalk, hence the name 'sessile'. In spring and summer, these leaves provide a dense canopy that offers shelter and habitat for a wide range of wildlife.

Acorns, the fruit of the Sessile Oak, are borne on short stalks and ripen in the autumn. These acorns are a crucial food source for many animals, including squirrels, birds, and deer. The tree's wood is highly valued for its strength and durability, traditionally used in construction, furniture making, and barrel crafting.

Sessile Oaks thrive in well-drained, acidic soils and are often found in upland areas and woodlands. They play a vital ecological role, supporting numerous species of fungi, insects, and birds, making them an integral part of the British natural heritage.