Quercus agrifolia (Coast Live Oak)
← Back to Plant DatabaseQuercus agrifolia
Coast Live Oak
Characteristics
Height: 25-40 ft
Width: 15-30 ft
Natural Setting: This species is commonly found in valleys and slopes, typically below 3,000 feet elevation. It's a dominant species in live oak woodland and can be found in various natural settings including chaparral or coastal sage scrub, and occasionally in native grassland savannahs.
Plant Type: Tree
Dormancy: Evergreen
Form: Rounded, and sometimes upright
Growth Rate: Moderate to slow
Flower Season: Spring and winter
Drainage: Prefers medium drainage but tolerates a variety of soils, ideally a deep, well-draining loam
Sun Exposure: Thrives in full sun to part shade
Water Requirements: Low, with maximum once a month irrigation once established
Cold Tolerance: Tolerates cold down to 15°F
Overview
One of the only native oaks that thrives in coastal environments. An iconic tree that serves as an essential species for wildlife and the surrounding ecosystem. They can live for centuries, often surpassing 250 years.³
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A beautiful rare oak native to Southern California that has lost much of its native habitat due to development.