Quercus alba is a large deciduous tree and is one of the most important timber trees of the eastern United States. The tree has a straight trunk and a rounded crown, with a lifespan of up to 300 years. The bark is light gray and becomes furrowed as the tree ages. The leaves are lobed, with a waxy upper surface and a hairy lower surface. The tree produces acorns that are an important food source for many wildlife species.