Oaks are among the oldest trees found on earth. Their occurrence extends across all continents except Australia. There are numerous oak trees, especially in Europe and North America. Some oak species also grow in Asia.
Where are oak trees most common?
Oaks are found on almost all continents, especially in Europe, North America and Asia. The main subgroups are white oaks, red oaks and distorted oaks. Pedunculate and sessile oaks are common in Germany, while red oaks are mainly native to America.
The different subgroups of oak:
- White Oaks
- Red Oaks
- Zerr-Oaks
White Oaks
are widespread almost all over the world. The most diverse subspecies grow in Europe, Asia, North Africa and North America.
Red Oaks
occur naturally only in America. Some varieties even grow in South America.
Zerr-Oaks
do not grow as old or as large as other oak species. Their occurrence extends across Europe, North Africa and Asia. This species does not occur naturally in America.
Oak species common in Germany
The English oak is particularly common in Germany. It is very robust and has been valued since ancient times for its solid and non-rotting wood.
The sessile oak grows somewhat less frequently and is distinguished primarily by its inflorescences.
Red oaks do not occur in their natural form either in Germany or throughout Europe. The trees growing here were mainly imported from North America and planted in parks because of their beautifully colored foliage.
Oak trees in North, South and Central America
The number of oak species found throughout America can only be approximately estimated.
Red oaks in particular are native here. Their wood is less strong than that of white oak. Red oak acorns mature for two years before they can be harvested.
Tips & Tricks
The attempt by German forest farmers to plant white oaks and red oaks together failed. The different species have very different growth times, so they hinder each other's growth.
