We divide the many species of oak (genus name is Quercus) into two basic groups: Red oak and white oak. Within each of these groups are about 20 species that are commercially used for lumber. However, almost all lumber is sold as either red or white and the species separations are not made.

 

 

 

In the woods, if the leaves on the tree are rounded at the ends, it is in the white oak group. Pointed ends mean red oak.