A characteristic understory tree of the Sandhills, most often growing on poor, dry sites. The name of this often overlooked tree is still a matter of controversy. Quercus margaretta is the original spelling of the species, but others have "corrected" the grammar to Q. margarettiae; the USDA Plants database and Flora of North America use Quercus margarettae (Ashe) Small. Sand Post Oak has also sometimes been considered a variety of Post Oak (Quercus stellata), Q. stellata var. margaretta (Ashe ex Small) Sargent.

Moore Co., NC 7/1/07.

The USDA website uses the name "runner oak" for this species, since in some parts of its range where it is more shrublike (e.g. Oklahoma) it may spread by underground runners, forming clonal colonies. Alternate common names include Dwarf Post Oak and Scrubby Post Oak.

Moore Co., NC 7/1/07.

Columbus Co., NC 9/29/2013.

Flowers appear in mid-April. These are catkins (male flowers).

Scotland Co., NC 4/18/10.

Acorn.

Scotland Co., NC 11/1/08.

The bark is often scalier than that of Post Oak.

Moore Co., NC 7/1/07.

Columbus Co., NC 9/29/2013.

Scotland Co., NC 4/18/10.