Quercus virginiana

OVERVIEW:

The Southern live oak (Quercus virginiana) is a wide-spreading tree with horizontal and arching branches that form a broad, rounded canopy. Oaks are most often propagated from seed. It is suggested to prune all throughout the year to maintain shape. Fertilize 3 times a year with lawn fertilizer 3:1:2 ratio. Young trees grow quickly and need to be trained if their natural tendency to sprawl is unwelcome. The species prefers partial shade and tolerates more shade in summer than most oaks. Can be damaged by long periods of freezing weather. Fairly drought tolerant once established, but susceptible to oak wilt and chestnut blight. Dimensions are 40-80 ft. in height and 60-100 ft. in width. Dark-green, waxy leaves fall just as new leaves emerge in the spring, making the tree appear evergreen, though the leaf loss means it is deciduous not actually a true evergreen.

CLASSIFICATION:

Scientific Name: Quercus virginiana

Common Name: Heritage Live Oak

Family: Fagaceae

Suggested Uses: shade tree for yards, property line demarcation, parking lot trees

CHARACTERISTICS:

Height: 30 - 40 feet (in arid climates)

Foliage: Arching branches forming a broad, rounded canopy

Flower: Inconspicuous bloom yellowish-green flowers 

Bloom Period: Mar , Apr , May

Fruit: Dark brown 1/3 to 1/2 inch acorns

Bark: Dark Brown, Red/Burgundy

ENVIRONMENT:

Sun: Full sun, Part Shade

Water: moist soil with good drainage

Soil: Dry to moist soils, whether gravelly, sandy, loamy or clay, but does best in neutral or slightly acidic clay loams. Saline tolerant and tolerant of compaction.

USDA Zone: 8b - 10a