11/8/2011
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Few trees can compete for versatility with the mighty oak. From its majestic crown to its plentiful acorns, it is used for shade, lumber, tannin and even food for animals.
Several varieties of oak can be found in West Virginia. Three of those – white, red and chestnut – can be purchased from Clements State Tree Nursery in West Columbia, Mason County.
The white oak can be found at lower elevations in West Virginia. Its leaves turn red or brown in autumn and often stay attached to the tree in winter. Although it is slow growing, it is one of the most valuable timber trees in the state. White oak wood is used in whiskey barrels, lumber and veneer. In addition, its acorns make an excellent mast for livestock and wildlife.
One of the largest recorded white oaks in West Virginia is near Summersville in Nicholas County. The tree is 97 feet tall and measures 228 inches in circumference at breast height.
Chestnut oaks are common in West Virginia, but are rarely found above 3,000 feet. Chestnut leaves have rough teeth, and turn yellow in the fall. Its bark is a source of tannin, which is used to tan leather. Chestnut oak lumber is used to make cross ties for bridges and as fence posts.
One of the largest recorded chestnut oaks in West Virginia is near Selbyville in Upshur County. The tree is 96 feet tall and measures 216 inches in circumference at breast height.
Red oaks are common throughout the state. These rapid-growing trees have a beautiful, rounded crown and their leaves turn an eye-catching shade of red in the fall. The red oak makes a good ornamental or shade tree. It transplants well and thrives in a city environment, making this tree ideal for urban forestry programs. Red oak wood is used in furniture, flooring, boats and fence posts.
One of the largest recorded red oaks in West Virginia is near Tridelphia in Ohio County. The tree is 124 feet tall and measures 272 inches in circumference at breast height.
Clements State Tree Nursery sells bare root white, chestnut and red oak seedlings starting at $25 per bundle. Each bundle consists of 25 seedlings – plenty for you to plant and share with friends and family. Orders can be placed online and shipped to the buyer or picked up at the nursery.
For a complete catalog of seedlings for sale at Clements State Tree Nursery, visit
www.wvcommerce.org/resources/forestry/treenursery.aspx or call the nursery at 304-675-1820.
For more information, about the largest trees in West Virginia, visit
www.wvcommerce.org/BigTrees.
Contact Information
Leslie Fitzwater, Public Information Specialist
304-957-9342 or 304-541-8102
Leslie.C.Fitzwater@wv.gov