It has been shown that it can withstand prairie fires due to a thick corky bark. The leaves and acorns are distinctive. The leaves have broad lobes above deep sinuses and little lobes below. The large fringed acorns are also distinctive. A quick look at a bare leaf burr oak in winter is a spooky and foreboding sight.
Growth rate is moderate.
This is a slower growing large, long lived native oak. It tolerates drought, poor drainage, clay soil, and salt. It has good fall color. This tree is enjoyed for its unusual non-typical oak leaves. They are many lobed, small with needle like tips.