Leaves are simple, alternate, deciduous and leathery with up to 3 large, squarish, bristle-tipped lobes.
Leaves are dark green on the surface, very hairy below, and often resemble a fan in shape.
Twigs are gray and pubescent. Terminal buds are angled, pointed, red-brown and pubescent. Bark is thick, dark and rough. The acorn matures in two seasons. Blackjack oak is usually a small tree on dry sites in the southeastern U.S Intolerant of shade.