Oak
Oak is a species of hardwood tree found in most parts of Leanor. It grows into tall trees with mighty branches, rough bark and small, lobed leaves. Oak trees grow quite slowly and can live for 600 years, with individual specimens sometimes even living to over a thousand years old. The fruit of the oak is a nut called an acorn.
There are many different subspecies of oak, but the most common type found in Leanor is the summer oak, which is a particularly large, deciduous species of oak. As a home for many small animals like birds and squirrels, insects and fungi, oaks are an integral part of many ecosystems. For some animals, the leaves and acorns can be toxic, for others, they are perfectly safe to eat.
Oaks are used for many different purposes. Their timber is hard and strong and is therefore used in construction as well as in the production of furniture that is meant to be sturdy and long-lasting. It is also commonly used for the building of exterior doors and gates. Additionally, the timber is also used to make casks for fine wine.
The bark of oaks is used in the tanning process of leather. The oak is home to an insect known as a gall wasp which creates woody lumps known as oak apples. These oak apples are used in the making of inks.
Aside from its many uses, the oak also carries cultural significance. With its endurance and longevity, it represents strength and is often associated with royalty and power.
Particularly in the kingdom of Eleonis, the oak stands for royalty. In a religion that sees trees planted on graves, oaks are only planted on the resting places of Kings.
In the faith of the Seven, oaks are often associated with Theor, the god of war, and therefore represents strength and power in this culture as well.
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