Overcup Oak (Quercus lyrata) is a deciduous tree native to the southeastern United States, thriving in lowland areas with poor drainage. It plays a crucial role in regenerative agriculture and agroecology due to its adaptability to wet conditions and its ability to support biodiversity. As a canopy layer tree in food forests, it provides shade and habitat for various species. The tree can reach heights of up to 20 meters and is characterized by its unique acorns, which are almost entirely enclosed by the cup. Overcup Oak is valuable for ecological restoration projects, offering habitat and food for wildlife, including birds and mammals. Historically, its wood has been used for construction due to its durability and resistance to decay. In agroecological systems, it can be integrated into riparian buffers to stabilize soil and improve water retention. Its deep root system helps prevent erosion, and its leaf litter enhances soil fertility. Although the acorns are high in tannins, they can be processed to reduce bitterness and used as a food source.
Growing Details
Overcup Oak thrives in wet, poorly drained soils and can tolerate periodic flooding. It grows best in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. For soil preparation, ensure good organic matter content and consider mulching to retain moisture. Companion plants include other wetland species like willows and bald cypress. Avoid planting in areas prone to drought. Propagation is typically done through seed, which requires cold stratification to break dormancy. Harvest acorns in the fall, and sto
Edible Parts
Seed
Tags
Keystone Specie Carbon Farming Attracts Wildlife Fire Wood Building Wood Windbreak Erosion Preventing Visual Appeal
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Quercus lyrata</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Southeastern United States
applicable geo region: North America
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of April for 30 days
Harvest:
beginning
of September for 60 days
Seed Start:
?
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(2/5)
edible uses: Acorns can be leached to remove tannins and used as a food source. They are typically ground into flour after processing.
Medicinal Rating:
(1/5)
medicinal uses: Traditionally, oak bark has been used for its astringent properties in herbal medicine, although specific uses of Overcup Oak are less documented.
health concerns: Acorns contain tannins, which can be toxic if consumed in large quantities without proper processing. Ensure thorough leaching before consumption.
other uses: Wood is used for construction and firewood due to its durability and resistance to decay.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Quercus lyrata
common names: Overcup Oak; Swamp Post Oak; Swamp White Oak
family: Fagaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Quercus
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.0 m
spacing: 10.0 m
growing difficulty: Medium
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC
water demands: High
humidity: High
light demands: High
root type: Deep
frost tender: Low
hardness:โโโโโโโโโโ(6/10)
first harvest: 20 years
life span: 300 years
succession: Late
growth rate: Slow
max height: 20.0 m
max width: 15.0 m
soil preference:
Heavy
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Monoecious
growth details: Overcup Oak thrives in wet, poorly drained soils and can tolerate periodic flooding. It grows best in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. For soil preparation, ensure good organic matter content and consider mulching to retain moisture. Companion plants include other wetland species like willows and bald cypress. Avoid planting in areas prone to drought. Propagation is typically done through seed, which requires cold stratification to break dormancy. Harvest acorns in the fall, and sto
Potential Disturbances: Overcup Oak may experience pressure from oak wilt and other fungal diseases. Natural pest management includes promoting beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to control aphid populations. Companion planting with garlic or chives can help deter pests. Organic neem oil sprays can be used for caterpillar infestations.
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