This medium-sized deciduous tree is native to the eastern and central U.S. and hardy to Zone 3, growing 50–60' tall with an irregular, pyramidal habit when young. Shiny, dark green leaves have 7–9 pointed lobes and turn reddish brown in fall. Yellow-green catkins appear in May, followed by pairs of striated acorns. Nearly black, deeply furrowed bark adds winter interest. Best in full sun and moist, rich, well-drained acidic soil, it makes a long-lived shade tree for large landscapes.