Nearby Trees
Prunus serrulata, Prunus x yedoensis
Capitol Square, S.W.
U.S. Capitol Grounds
Highlights
Botanical Name
Quercus michauxii
A member of the white oak group, swamp chestnut oak thrives in moist bottomlands and floodplains of the southeastern United States. It has large, oblong leaves with wavy margins that turn deep red in the fall. The bark is thick and scaly, resembling that of white oak. This species produces large acorns that are a favorite among wildlife, particularly deer and squirrels.
Swamp chestnut oak is valued for its durable, water-resistant wood, historically used in barrel-making and construction. Despite its preference for wet soils, it is adaptable to drier conditions when planted in urban areas.
There is one original swamp chestnut oak tree still living on the U.S. Capitol campus today.
About the Olmsted Originals
Landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted's 1874 General Plan for the U.S. Capitol Grounds sought to create a setting to accentuate the monumentality of the Capitol Building. Approximately 45 of Olmsted's trees remain today, having endured more than a century of urban life on the front stage of American democracy.
Each tree has its own unique features and preservation challenges, and the Architect of the Capitol's arborists employ industry best management practices to ensure these trees are given the very best care to remain safely in the landscape for current and future generations to enjoy.
