Jepson (2012) (APG System) |
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Order |
Fagales |
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Jepson (1993) (Cronquist System) |
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Order |
Fagales |
The family Fagaceae is named for the genus Fagus (beech). All members of Fagaceae in California are trees or woody shrubs.
The most common genus of Fagaceae in California and throughout the world is Quercus (oak). Two other significant forest trees in the eastern US and eurasia are Castanea (Chestnut) and Fagus (beech).
These are amongst the most important hardwood tree species in the world, often dominating or forming the main structure of a hardwood forest. Prior to european colonization, oak and chestnut were the dominant tree species in the eastern US and California, providing a main food source for people and wildlife.
Fagaceae
Dicot Plant Families
Plant Relationships |
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Native Genera: |
Castanopsis |
Chinquapin |
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Other Common Genera: |
Castanea |
Chestnut |
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Related Families: |
Betulaceae |
Birch, alder, hazelnut |
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Description |
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Growth Forms: |
Most members of Fagaceae are trees. Some are woody shrubs, but these are essentially dwarf forms of trees. |
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Branching: |
Alternate branching. |
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Leaves: |
Simple leaves. |
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Flowers: |
The flowers are on catkins at the ends of the branches. |
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Fruit: |
The seeds are nuts that ripen in late summer or fall. Acorns, chestnuts and beech nuts are the most widely known. These are important food sources. |
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Growing Conditions |
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Sun and Exposure: |
Most members of Fagaceae are intolerant of shade. They require full sun for all or most of the day in order to thrive. |
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Soil and Moisture Requirements: |
Soil and moisture requirements vary. Oak and chestnut grow in full sun in the forest, but also grow in open, parklike stands. Tanoak and chinkapin seek open and moist locations within a dense forest. Beech is found in riparian woodlands or in rich, mesic soil within a forest. |
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Horticulture and Restoration |
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Horticultural Comments: |
Members of Fagaceae are very drought tolerant if placed in the right location and given the proper management during transition. If you wish to continue watering, apply water away from the root crown. |
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Wildlife Habitat: |
Acorns, chestnuts and beech nuts are highly important sources of wildlife food and habitat. Mast production is used as one important measure of the health of a wildlife community. |
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Restoration Projects: |
Oaks are commonly used in restoration projects in a wide variety of habitats. |
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California Native
Plant Guide
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