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California Native Plant

Quercus agrifolia

Coast Live Oak

Plant photo of: Quercus agrifolia
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Information by: Plant Nerd and SelecTree        Photographer: Normans/Applegate/Mullany

 

Description

Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia) is one of the best trees for California native or California-friendly gardens. It grows very well from the coastal areas to the interior valleys. It is an evergreen tree that can reach 25’-70' tall and up to 70' wide, so make sure you have the space in your garden to support it. It is considered very low-water-use and is susceptible to root rot in gardens that are over-irrigated. Plant it with other California natives or low-water plants and stick to a watering cycle that includes watering during the fall, winter, and spring with no supplemental water in the summer. The tree is a slow grower and has an irregular shape when it is young, so it is important to make minimal pruning cuts to improve the look of the canopy. Over-pruning or hedging can take years to recover from, so consult or hire a licensed arborist when the shaping becomes out of your reach. This tree will eventually become a large shade tree; therefore, the plant selection around it may need to be adjusted as it matures. This tree should be planted at least five feet away from any hardscape areas, 20 feet from structures such as houses and buildings, and not near any powerlines. Shrubs and perennials should be planted about four feet away from this tree. It should be irrigated for about 45 minutes once a week when using most in-line drip irrigation systems.

 

Plant Type

Tree

Height Range

25-40', 40-60'

Flower Color

n/a

Flower Season

Fall

Leaf Color

Dark Green

Bark Color

n/a

Fruit Color

n/a

Fruit Season

n/a

Sun

Full

Water

Very Low

Growth Rate

Moderate

Soil Type

Sandy, Clay, Loam, Rocky, Unparticular

Soil Condition

Average, Well-drained

Soil pH

Neutral

Adverse Factors

n/a

Design Styles

Ranch, Spanish, Woodland

Accenting Features

Specimen

Seasonal Interest

n/a

Location Uses

Background

Special Uses

Erosion Control, Shade Tree, Naturalizing

Attracts Wildlife

n/a

Water Saving Tip:

Mulching and adding compost to soil can minimize evaporation and help soil absorb and store water.