Oak trees (Notholithocarpus densiflorus) or commonly called Tan Oaks. Although, not a true oak, its acorns resemble that of the oak tree and are considered a relative. This medium size tree (growing about 50-150 feet in height) grows best in the ‘redwood belt’ along the California coast. And just like the redwood tree, its leaf litter tends to keep other plants from sprouting beneath it probably due to its acidic nature. The only plants that seems to do okay beneath it (at least at The Cottage) are the Sword fern.
The acorns are a valuable food source for many kinds of wildlife. The Indians in the California’s North Coast Range preferred this nut over all other kinds due to its high oil content. In fact, the main diet of many Indian communities were salmon and Tan Oak acorns.
The wood is hard, strong, and fine-grained. But in the nineteenth century the bark off the Tan Oak was valued more. Consumers demanded for more inexpensive leather goods. Tannic acid was essential for the tanning of leather and the Tan Oak contained more of this than any other tree. My ancestors were part of this growing industry in the Loma Mar area.
Published by Amy on: Jan 12, 2016
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