Did You Know?

Oak leaves have been falling.  Everywhere. A display of beautiful jewel colours, and piles of heaped leaves indicates autumn is over and winter is here.

There are approximately 500 species of oaks, in the genus Quercus.  Oaks are native to the Northern Hemisphere and extend from cool to temperate climates in the Americas, Asia, Europe, and North Africa. 

North America has the largest number of oak species closely followed by China.

As symbols, the acorn and the oak leaf have long reflected strength and prosperity.

The Sisters Oak located in Louisiana is the largest certified southern live oak tree.  It is estimated to be up to 1,500 years old with a trunk that measures 11.6 m.

The Major Oak is an 800- to 1000-year-old tree located in Sherwood Forest, Nottinghamshire, the home of Robin Hood.

Since Roman times oakwood has been prized for making strong watertight barrels, perfect for storing and transporting both water and wine. Oakwood is used in winemaking to vary the colour, flavour, profile, and tannin texture of the wine. 

English and Evergreen Oak Trees also provide the perfect environment for growing prized truffles. Truffle farming in New Zealand began in Gisborne in 1993. The highest value truffles grown in New Zealand are the Perigord Black Truffle and the Bianchetto.