Bur oak is a large drought resistant, long-lived and reasonably fast-grower for an oak. Its acorns have a bur or mossy appearance hence the common name.  Tolerates lime soils better than most oaks. It is native to the central plains and the great lakes regions of North America. The tree has strong branches, drought tolerance, winter hardiness, and freedom from serious insects or diseases. It prefers rich bottomland but is tolerant of poor soil conditions as rocky slopes and dry or clay soils if given full sun conditions. A long taproot makes it difficult to transplant.