Live Oak
Quercus virginiana
Live Oak (Quercus virginiana) is a massive, spreading evergreen tree with a short, stocky trunk and massive horizontal branches. The broad, spreading crown is majestic and sculptural. Long-lived and resists wind damage from hurricanes. Moderate growth rate when young; slows down as the tree grows in size.
Uses: Use Live Oak as a shade or specimen tree for large spaces. It can be used in large residential gardens, but is more frequently used in public landscapes. Use in parks, golf courses, school campuses and as a street tree. Tolerates parking lot conditions.
Height: 40 to 80 feet
Spread: 60 to 130 feet
Native Habitat: Live Oak is found in a wide variety of habitats and ecosystems in the state of Florida. It grows statewide and succeeds inland and along the coast. The largest trees grow in wet hardwood hammocks.
Plant Characteristics
Flowers: Inconspicuous. Not grown for its flowers.
Leaves: Leaves are alternate and dark green on the upper surface and lighter in color on the reverse. The leathery leaves grow from 1 to 5 inches long. Evergreen.
Fruit: Acorn. Acorns usually occur in clusters of 2 to 5. The cap covers 1/3rd of the acorn.
Bark: Mature trees have dark gray bark with vertical fissures. Young trees have light gray bark.
Culture
Soil: Does best in moist, fertile soils and prefers a pH between 4.5 to 6.5 but will tolerate moderately alkaline soil. Tolerates salt spray and does well near the coast.
Water: Drought tolerant. Performs best in well-drained soils but will tolerate most wet soils.
Exposure: Full sun.
Hardiness Zones: USDA Zone 8-11
Life Span: Matures trees can live over 300 years.
Additional Information: The pollen can cause allergic reactions in some people. Acorns are a great food source for wildlife. Spanish moss is frequently found growing on the branches.
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