Illustration of Tanoak leaves and acorns
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Tanoak:
Tanoak is an abundant component of the Redwood/Douglas fir forests
of Northern California. The Tanoak is not a true oak, although it
belongs to the same family (Fagaceae) as the Oak genus.
Tanoak is the only one of over 100 species of Lithocarpus that
is native to the Western Hemisphere. The Tanoak bears acorns, however
the caps
of the fruit appear more like the husks of the Chestnut.
The leaves remain green year-round. Tanoak is a slow growing
species with thick gray bark. Tanoak trees can reach heights of up
to 100 feet. Trees 20 to 60 inches in diameter can be 100 -150
years
old.
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Tanoak Wood:
The physical properties of Tanoak wood are very similar to those of
Northern Red Oak. It is a light, golden brown wood with occasional
natural stain. It's
moderate texture has numerous broad rays that give it a conspicuous
ray fleck on the radial surface. Thus, Tanoak can yield the conventional
straight grain typical of other oaks, or a more patterned image that
is
as attractive as those found in exotic woods common to Asia, Africa
and
South America. Because Tanoak is hard and resistant to abrasion,
it is an excellent wood for flooring. And in addition, Tanoak makes
an excellent choice for decorative veneer and high-quality furniture. |
Limited range of the Tanoak |
