Some implications of anatomical variations in the wood of pedunculate oak (Quercus Robur L.), including comparisons with common beech (Fagus Sylvatica L.)

Abstract

Several aspects of the secondary xylem anatomy of oak (Quercus robur L.) branches, trunks and roots are investigated. These are. growth ring width and definition, vessel size (diameter), shape (eccentricity) and distribution, fihre type (ge1atinous or normal), and fibre, axial parenchyma and ray distribution. These observations are put in perspective by comparison with beech (Fagus sylvatica L.), and discussed in relation to their implications in wood identification, archaeology, dendrochronology and water relations of the tree.