The Swamp Chestnut Oak (Quercus michauxii) is a towering hardwood known for its impressive size, striking appearance, and ecological value. A close relative of the white oak, this tree is often referred to by its nickname, “Cow Oak,” due to the sweet, edible acorns that cattle and other wildlife love to eat.

These oaks thrive in moist, loamy soils, commonly found in bottomlands, swamps, creek banks, and mixed hardwood forests throughout the southeastern United States. Despite their preference for wet environments, swamp chestnut oaks are remarkably drought-tolerant once established, making them an excellent choice for large landscapes or open yards.

Swamp chestnut oaks can grow to monumental sizes, with mature trees reaching heights of 60 to 100 feet and trunk diameters up to 4 feet wide. They feature a rounded crown and deeply furrowed bark that closely resembles that of the white oak. Their broad, leathery leaves have a glossy green surface and a hairy underside, turning vibrant red and orange in the fall.

The acorns are among the sweetest of all oak species, large in size and palatable enough to be eaten raw without boiling, unlike many other acorns. These nutrient-rich nuts are highly valued by deer, turkeys, squirrels, livestock, and many other wildlife species, playing an important role in southern ecosystems.

In addition to their wildlife benefits, swamp chestnut oaks are prized timber trees, producing high-quality hardwood used in flooring, furniture, and fencing. Their strength, longevity, and resilience make them one of the most important and versatile oaks of the South.