Quercus virginiana

Summary
Foliage: Evergreen broadleaf
Height: 30 to 40 feet
Spread: 40 to 60 feet
Shape: Spreading

A massive shade tree with evergreen foliage that is bright olive-green when new and changes to a glossy, dark green when mature.


Plant Needs
Zone: 7 to 10
Light: Partial shade to full sun
Moisture: Wet to moist
Soil Type: Sandy, loam, or clay
pH Range: 3.7 to 7.0 


Functions
Suggested uses for this plant include shade, street tree, and specimen plant.


Planting Notes
Transplant small size trees.  Tolerates soils ranging from light sand to heavy and compact silt and clay.   Tolerates a wide range of moisture conditions.  Tolerates salt spray.
Requires large area for branches and roots to spread. 

Care
Prune when young to establish main branches.  Maintain adequate soil conditions.


Problems
No serious pest or disease problems.  Gall insect is more unsightly than damaging.  Susceptible to root rot in coastal areas.


Alternatives
Consult local sources, including historic or public gardens and arboreta, regarding cultivars and related species that grow well in your area.

Cultivars of QUERCUS VIRGINIANA
No important cultivars.


Comments
An evergreen member of the oak family, the Live Oak is cold hardy in the Tidewater area and as far north as Williamsburg.   A magnificent shade tree; however, its large, wide-spreading, horizontal branches make it inappropriate for small properties. The acorns of the Live Oak are eaten by many animals.

This material was developed by Carol Ness as part of the Interactive Design and Development Project funded by the Kellogg Foundation. Mary Miller, Project Director. Diane Relf, Content Specialist, Horticulture. Copyright 1989 by VCE.