Trees of Milam County
TREES by Joyce Kilmer (1886-1918)
I think that I shall never see
A poem lovely as a tree.
A tree whose hungry mouth is prest
Against the sweet earth’s flowing breast;
A tree that looks at God all day,
And lifts her leafy arms to pray;
A tree that may in summer wear
A nest of robins in her hair;
Upon whose bosom snow has lain;
Who intimately lives with rain.
Poems are made by fools like me,
But only God can make a tree.
Join us now as we explore all our favorite trees in Milam County!
Native Pecan Tree
Juglandaceae Carya illinoinensis
The stately native Pecan trees are ever present in our county, offering their bounty to squirrels, hogs, deer and even a few persistent humans. Found mostly along stream and river lowlands, but also sprinkled here and there in our cities and parks, they offer their shade in the hot summers and their nuts when they feel like it – some years yes, some years no. Photo is of a typical stand of trees near Sandy Creek on CR 241. Download the Native Pecan Tree PDF file
Post Oak Tree
Juglandaceae Carya illinoinensis
It is the namesake of an ecological region that makes up the majority of Milam County – the Post Oak Savannah. The tree was so named for its use in making strong long lasting posts that helped to build our country. Download the Post Oak Tree PDF file
Bur Oak Tree
Fagaceae Quercus virginiana
One of the most drought tolerant trees of North America, this grand tree survives throughout the plains of North America, from Canada to southeast Texas and the Eastern US. It produces distinctive large acorns that are an important food for wildlife. Learn more about this great American beauty.Download the Bur Oak Tree PDF file
Live Oak Tree
Fagaceae Quercus virginiana
The ultimate southern shade tree, and widely preserved and used in landscaping, it is found from Virginia to Florida to Texas. Learn more about this fast growing but long lived American native. Download Live Oak Tree PDF file