Bear (scrub) oak
Bear oak (Quercus ilicifolia)
Bear oak is one of two species of "scrub oak" commonly found in the Albany Pine Bush Preserve. This multi-stemmed shrub can reach a height of over 15 feet but is usually found growing 1-10 feet tall in recently managed areas of the Preserve. The leaves of the bear oak are pointed and bristle-tipped. Together with dwarf chestnut oak (the other species of scrub oak found in the Pine Bush) bear oak can form dense thickets. Look for its small egg-shaped acorns to ripen in late summer.
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