Japanese Emperor Oak

95-16b This Japanese emperor oak (Quercus dentata) was one of several grown from seed of cultivated trees in the Seneca Arboretum of Louisville, Kentucky that had been selected for their attractive form and color. This species will not cross pollinate with any American oak, but we have several of them here at Oak Ridge (two are included in this tour) so we are able to harvest some seeds. As you examine the trees, look for the unique, fringed acorn cupules that resemble fairy hats – or, perhaps, Japanese emperor hats!

Location:

95-16b          39.824553 N, 89.661073 W          Get walking directions here!

96-01     Another Japanese emperor oak (Quercus dentata), this one was grown from Chinese-sourced seed picked in the China Geographic Collection of the Morton Arboretum in northern Illinois. Sources can differ considerably in their hardiness as well as leaf size and fall color. As noted above under 95-16b, this species will not cross pollinate with any American oak, so by having the species here at Oak Ridge from several sources (two are included in this tour) we are able to harvest some seeds and you should be able to find some tiny emperor hats.

Location:

96-01          39.824100 N, 89.661165 W          Get walking directions here!

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