Live Oak
Quercus virginiana
Family: Fagaceae (Beech Family)
The iconic tree for the Gulf Coast, live oaks can achieve vast dimensions, up to 100 ft. in width. Although not a true evergreen, leaf loss is timed to occur just as new growth emerges, so the tree appears to be evergreen.
- Scientific Name: Quercus virginiana
- Common Names: Live Oak, Coastal Live Oak, Southern Live Oak, Virginia Live Oak
- Family: Fagaceae (Beech Family)
- Growth Habit: Wide-spreading tree
- Height: 40-80 feet; 60-100 feet in width
- Leaves: Dark green, shiny, elliptic
- Flowers: Yellow
- Bloom Time: March through May
- Wildlife Benefits: Acorns are an important food source for many species of wildlife. Larval host to several butterflies and moths, including white hairstreak, northern hairstreak, and Horace's duskywing.
