Live Oak

Live Oak

Quercus virginiana

Family: (Fagaceae) Beech

Habitat: Coastal plains

Height: 40-80 ft.

Bloom Period: April - May

Description: 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.

The Wildlife Connection: Acorns are an important food sources for many species of wildlife. Larval host to several butterflies and moths, including white hairstreak, northern hairstreak, and Horace's duskywing.