Quercus virginiana

Also known as Coastal Live Oak, Southern Live Oak, Virginia Live Oak, Live Oak, Encino

Live oaks, also known as Quercus virginiana, are large, long-lived, evergreen oaks with a rounded crown, short trunk, and low branching. The species is native to coastal plains and woods from Virginia to southern Florida and Texas. This majestic tree has massive spreading limbs and branches often covered with Spanish moss throughout most of its range. Many old southern roads were planted with live oaks, which have become a symbol of the region over time. 

During the spring, female and male catkins with yellowish-green flowers appear. The fruit is an ellipsoidal acorn reaching about one inch in length, and the scaly cups are approximately one-third the size of the acorn. Many species of wildlife depend on acorns for food. The tree has shiny dark green leaves ranging from oblong to elliptic. The leaves are evergreen. Due to its high density, wood makes an excellent fuel. The acorns of live oaks mature in one year.

It is winter hardy to USDA Zones 8-10. In these areas, it is easily grown in average, medium to wet, well-drained soils in full sun. It tolerates a wide range of soils.

BONAP MAP

Height: 40’-80’
Spread 60’-100’
Bloom: March-April
Light: Full Sun
Water: Medium, High
Zone: 8, 9, 10
Origin: Southeastern United States, Mexico