Sand live oak (Quercus geminata)

Sand live oak

Sand live oak, or Quercus geminata, is a small, resilient tree native to sandy coastal regions. It exhibits leathery, elliptical leaves with an underside that's silver-white, enhancing its drought-tolerance. Accompanied by acorns, sand live oak supports local wildlife and thrives in areas with frequent fires, maintaining the health and diversity of its ecosystem.

Scientific classification

Species

Sand live oak (Quercus geminata)

Beeches, walnuts, and allied trees

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Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

6 m to 15 m

Plant Height

6 m to 15 m

Spread

Spring

Growth Season

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of Sand live oak

Quickly Identify Sand live oak

Leaves are small, leathery, with dark green upper surface and paler underside.

Distinctive acorns measuring 1 inch (2.5 cm) with scaly, light grey cup.

Bark is deeply furrowed, rough, dark brown, showcasing maturity and resilience.

Male flowers are yellowish-green catkins, up to 4 inches (10 cm) long.

Stem initially velvety with light tan-gray color, later smooth and slender.

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Care Guide for Sand live oak

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Keep soil for sand live oak moist yet well-drained, allowing the taproot to access moisture deeper down. Ensure topsoil remains unwatered to avoid flooding. Reduced summer watering promotes health, as sand live oak tolerates dry spells effectively.

Fertilize: Sand live oak thrives without supplemental fertilizer, but can benefit from a 12-6-6 (N-P-K) application. Natural nutrition can be provided by spreading mulch around them, simulating their native environment rich in forest litter that decomposes into valuable organic matter.

Pruning: Sand live oak thrives with early to late winter pruning to maintain vigor. Remove dead or crossing branches to enhance air circulation and light access. Aim for a strong central leader and balanced branches. Proper techniques prevent pests and promote health; use clean tools for best results.

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