Southern Live Oak

Southern Live Oak

One of the most widely planted evergreen oaks, the Southern Live Oak is the epitome of a stately tree! With its large spreading crown and enormous branches, this beloved tree is instantly recognizable. Native to the Southeastern United States but very easy to grow in nearly all climates where temperatures don’t drop below -10°F, it has proven itself a reliable and drought tolerant street tree here in Portland.

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Latin Name: Quercus virginiana
Site and Soil: 1/2 day to full sun and well-drained soil.
Hardiness: Hardy to at least 0F
Bearing Age: 2-3 years after planting
Size at Maturity: 20-35 ft. in height
Bloom Time: April
Ripening Time: August of the following year
Yield: 50+ lbs.
Pests & Diseases: Oaks are susceptible to Sudden Oak Death, a fungal disease that can kill entire stands of oaks, though we’ve not seen it yet in our area
USDA Zone: 7 for sure, probably 6 once established