Live oak - Quercus virginiana (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images, Toxic)

Live oak

Also known as: Bay live oak, Escarpment live oak

Quercus virginiana, commonly known as live oak, is a large evergreen tree native to coastal areas of southeast North America, known for its imposing, wide crown. Live oak is commonly cultivated as an ornamental in the American South, most often planted in avenues.

Scientific classification

Species

Live oak (Quercus virginiana)

Beeches, walnuts, and allied trees

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

Spring, Fall

Harvest Time

15 m to 35 m

Plant Height

18 m to 30 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

Brown, Black, Yellow, Gold, Copper

Fruit Color

Yellow, Green

Flower Color

Brown

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Live oak

Attributes of Live oak

Growth Rate

In its active growth phases during spring and summer, live oak exhibits a rapid growth rate. This accelerated pace facilitates a flurry of leaf production and a considerable extension in height. Enhanced by sunlight abundance and warm conditions, live oak's rapid growth might result in a denser canopy and more extensive root system, potentially overshadowing neighboring vegetation. Unlike its slower growth in cooler seasons, live oak's fast-paced development during these seasons presents a remarkable life cycle adaptation.

Distribution of Live oak

Distribution Map

Live oak is native to the southeastern US, following the Atlantic coast from Texas to Virginia. Live oak prefers moist environments and is typically found in sandy, gravelly, or clay soils along coastal plains, though it is sometimes cultivated further inland as a shade tree.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Coast, Sandy-loam soils, Heavy clays

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Live oak (Quercus virginiana) is a common oak that grows slowly to become a mighty, wide-spreading tree. This makes a great low-maintenance shade tree for lawns. It has attractively shiny evergreen leaves and offers great winter color as well as flowers and acorns. Good shrubs to grow around this oak tree include yews, boxwoods, and rhododendrons since they like shady conditions.

Symbolism

Protection, Health, Money, Liberty

Interesting Facts

Live oak was used in early American shipbuilding. Its characteristics lent it to being used frequently in butt joints for shipbuilding in the early days of American ship manufacturing. The tree also has a specific gravity, or density of 0.88, which is very high for oak.

Name Story

Southern live oak: This plant has a long lifespan in which some lived for more than 1000 years. The Emancipation Oak on the campus of Hampton University in Virginia is listed by the National Geographic Society as one of the top ten trees in the world. It is also often called ”live oak" within its native habitat. However, the full name, southern live oak is given to distinguish it from other live oaks which is a general term for any evergreen species of oak.

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Toxicity

Live oak tree's tissues contain tannins that can cause digestive problems. Live oak poses mild toxicity to cats and dogs if they consume high amounts, especially the leaves and seeds. Symptoms include gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, and diarrhea. Immediate veterinary care is advised if pets show signs of distress after ingestion. Monitor children to prevent ingestion. Acorns may obstruct bowels if swallowed whole.

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Quickly Identify Live oak

Leathery leaves with revolute margins resembling laurel, persisting year-round.

Male flowers in pendulous catkins, wind-pollinated, greenish hue, lacking petals.

Egg-shaped acorns with bowl-shaped caps and sharp-pointed scales, fall maturation.

Dark green shiny leaves with pale underside, oblong to elliptic-obovate shape.

Rugged dark brown bark with reddish tints, furrowed texture, robust girth up to 4 feet.

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Care Guide for Live oak

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Adapted to dry spells, live oak prefers moderate moisture and exhibits drought tolerance by storing water. Water live oak every 1-2 weeks, allowing soil to dry slightly. Typically grown outdoors, it requires careful soil moisture management to prevent root rot while supporting robust year-round foliage.

Fertilize: Live oak thrives with balanced nutrition fertilizers during growth and high nitrogen in spring. Fertilize biannually per manufacturer guidelines, avoiding over-fertilization. Adjust feeding seasonally and perform soil tests to customize the fertilization program for optimal health.

Pruning: Live oak thrives with winter pruning, ideally from early to late winter, to maintain shape, eliminate dead or diseased wood, and enhance air circulation. Focus on crossing branches and interior growth. Use clean, sharp tools for precise cuts to promote healthy regrowth and structural integrity.

Propagation: Live oak can be propagated through cutting and layering in spring, which is moderately challenging. Success is marked by new growth. Key factors include using rooting hormone and maintaining adequate moisture levels for optimal results.

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Images of Live oak

Attributes of Live oak

Distribution of Live oak

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Live oak

Care Guide for Live oak

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