Live oak

[1] When the term live oak is used in a specific rather than general sense, it most commonly refers to the group of species under Quercus sect.

Evergreen oak species are also common in parts of southern Europe and south Asia, and are included in this list for the sake of completeness.

"The world's oldest floating ship, the USS Constitution, launched in 1797, got its nickname "Old Ironsides" during the War of 1812 after its hull, made in part of live oak, proved equal to the fearsome cannons of the British".

Live oak timber from the United States was similarly sought and exported until metal-hulled commercial vessels became the norm in the early part of the 20th century.

The wood of live oaks continues to be used occasionally in shipbuilding—and in tool handles for its strength, energy absorption, and density, although modern composites are often substituted with good effect.