The Post Oak tree, Quercus stellata, is a small to medium-sized tree. The bark of the Post Oak is similar to that of the White Oak, but somewhat darker and often fissured into scaly ridges. The leaves of Post Oak trees are usually 4 to 5 inches long and they are thick and somewhat leathery. They are dark green and shiny on the upper surface and lighter green and rough hairy beneath. The Post Oak commonly is associated with the Blackjack Oak. The Post Oak usually grows in dry, sandy to rocky soils.
The wood is hard and strong, and is very durable when in contact with soil. Its use is mainly for posts, railroad ties, mine props, and sometimes as fuel. In fact, the Post Oak sometimes is called the Box White Oak. Acorns are 1/2 to 2/3 inches long and ovoid in shape. The acorns matures in one year, ripening September to November. The leaves turn to a golden color in the fall.