Quercus
Quercus
Quercus (pronounced: kwer-kus) is a genus of trees and shrubs, which includes the oaks. The term is derived from the Latin word for "oak tree".
Etymology
The term "Quercus" is derived from the Celtic words 'quer' meaning "fine" and 'cuez' meaning "tree". This etymology reflects the importance of these trees in Celtic cultures.
Description
Quercus species are characterized by alternate, simple, deciduous or evergreen leaves with lobed, toothed, or entire margins. The flowers are catkins, produced in spring. The fruit is a nut called an acorn, borne in a cup-like structure known as a cupule.
Species
There are approximately 600 extant species of oaks. The genus is native to the Northern Hemisphere, and includes deciduous and evergreen species extending from cool temperate to tropical latitudes in the Americas, Asia, Europe, and North Africa.
Some of the most well-known species include:
- Quercus alba (White Oak)
- Quercus robur (English Oak)
- Quercus rubra (Red Oak)
- Quercus suber (Cork Oak)
Uses
Quercus species are used as food plants by the larvae of some Lepidoptera species. They also have a rich history of usage for medicinal and practical purposes. For example, the bark of the Cork Oak is used to produce wine stoppers (corks), and the wood of the White Oak is commonly used in furniture making.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Quercus
- Wikipedia's article - Quercus
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