live oak

Plant Type

Large Tree (greater than 25 ft)

Life Cycle

Perennial

Typical Size

40-80 ft. tall
30-100 ft. wide

Tolerant of

Drought, Occasional Flooding, Salt Exposure

Inolerant of

Poorly Drained Soil

Propagation

By seed

Plant Propagation Notes

No pretreatment is required.

Plant Planting Notes

Plant in wide open area with plenty of room to accommodate the wide open canopy spread.

Plants/Diseases

No significant disease or pest issues.

Wildlife Benefits

Host plant for butterfly larvae, Supports numerous caterpillars (bird food)

Leaves

Leaves alternate, oblong with entire margins. Hairy underneath.

Flowers

Male flowers on catkins.

Fruit

Acorn.

Bark

The furrowed bark is dark brown to red/burgundy.

Toxicity

Low toxicity if ingested.

USDA Hardiness Zones

8, 9, 10

Light Exposure

Full Sun, Part Sun/Shade

Soil Moisture

Dry, Medium, Moist

Soil Drainage

Well-drained

Soil pH

Acidic (less than 6.0), Neutral (6.0-8.0)

Native in South Carolina?

Yes

Plant Native Habitat

Maritime forest and scrub, barrier islands.

Global Conservation Status (NatureServe)

Secure (G5)

Federal Conservation Status (USFWS)

Not Listed

Distribution Notes

Common in the coastal plain.