Quercus virginiana ‘Cathedral’

Cathedral Oak

OVERVIEW:

The Cathedral Oak is a Quercus virginiana or southern live oak cultivar and was given its name for the overall shape of the tree, being that of a church steeple. It has small, dark green leaves that only shed to make room for new foliage and growth making the tree appear evergreen, though the leaf loss means it is semi-deciduous not actually a true evergreen. This tree reaches a height of 50 to 80 feet at maturity, growing around 1 to 2 feet annually. Growth pattern is wide-spreading with horizontal branches as a mature tree, and typically more vertical as a juvenile. Plant no closer than 30 feet apart. Best growth is made in moist, alkaline soil, sand, or clay with full sunlight. Being easy to care for, this extremely drought and heat tolerant tree is widely adaptable making it ideal for many landscaping designs.  

CLASSIFICATION:

Scientific Name: Quercus virginiana ‘Cathedral’

Common Name: Cathedral Oak

Family: Beech family

Suggested Uses: Ideal street, entryway, or park tree for its uprightness.

CHARACTERISTICS

Height: 50 to 80 feet

Foliage: Dark green, full dense

Flower: Inconspicuous bloom yellowish-green flowers 

Bloom Period: Mar, Apr, May

Fruit: Acorn cluster

Bark: Dark red brown

ENVIRONMENT:

Sun: Full sun

Water: moist soil with good drainage

Soil: Salty or alkaline soil

USDA Zone: 7b – 10b