Both species of oak are distributed throughout much of Scotland at lower elevations, usually less than 300 metres, although pedunculate oak is more common in the south and east of the country and sessile oak predominates in the north and west.

Oak This broad spreading tree can reach up to 30 metres in Scotland. Most do not produce acorns until they are over 50 years old. The oak’s acorns are carried on long stalks or ‘peduncles’.

Oak and birch are the main tree species, with varying amounts of holly, rowan and hazel. Oakwoods in the north-west and higher up the hill tend to have fewer oaks and more birch. Upland oakwoods, one of our most uniquely Scottish habitats, are included on the Scottish Biodiversity List. They’re also protected under the European Habitats Directive.