Common Oak / Quercus Robur

​Grandfather of the forest
 
 
You may think me common but I am the Grandfather of the forest with relatives who have lived for a thousand years.
I may be slow growing but am the single best tree for supporting wildlife. Caterpillars love my leaves, insects find a home in my gnarly bark and my acorns provide food for many animals.
I have a deep tap root so can survive long dry periods and I prefer moist clay soils.
My wood is very strong and I've been used for making ships and timber frames for buildings throughout time.