Swamp white oak is a long-lived wetland adapted tree that is highly valued by wildlife. Its leaves are pale and pubescent on the underside, giving it its Latin epithet “bicolor”. This makes the leaves strikingly beautiful when a breeze by a stream or wetland shakes its leaves. Its wood is close grained, heavy, and hard, making it well suited to resisting rot. Additionally, its attractive form and ease of planting makes it a common choice for landscaping.