Species laurel oak

laurel oak

Quercus laurifolia

Laurel oak (Quercus laurifolia) is a medium-sized deciduous tree native throughout the southeastern United States. It can reach heights of up to 60 feet and is known for its glossy, dark green leaves. Laurel oak has a sturdy trunk and usually has low-hanging, dark brownish-black branches. The attractive foliage turns bright yellow in fall. The bark is smooth and light gray when the tree is young, becoming more furrowed and darker with age. The acorns, which are one to two inches long and chestnut brown in color, mature in one season and provide good wildlife food. Laurel oak is an adaptable tree that tolerates a wide range of soils and is a good choice for a shade tree in cool, humid climates.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Cutting,Grafting Propagation,Layering Propagation,Air Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

7 - 9

Flowers:

Yellowish-green Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Laurel oak (Quercus laurifolia) should be watered weekly in the spring and fall, and biweekly during the summer and winter to keep its soil consistently moist. Water thoroughly when it gets dry, applying enough water so that it penetrates 8-12 inches into the ground. If possible, use a slow-release hose attachment for a more even distribution of water. Avoid getting water on the tree's foliage, as wet leaves can promote disease. Mulching the area around the tree can help conserve water and keep weeds away.

sunlight

Sunlight requirements for Laurel Oak vary depending on the climate in which it is grown. In cooler climates it prefers full sun, while in warmer climates it prefers dappled or partial shade. It is best grown in zones 7-10 and is fairly drought tolerant once it is established. Laurel Oak will usually need around 4-6 hours of direct sunlight each day, ideally during the morning or late afternoon when the sun is not as intense. During the hottest part of the day, the sun's rays can be very damaging to Laurel Oak and could cause leaf scorch or sunburn.

pruning

Pruning laurel oak trees should be done annually. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. During pruning, remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches, as well as any branches that rub against 1 another. Also, prune any branches that are too long or have extra shoots. Pruning should be done sparingly, as aggressive pruning can disturb the natural shape of the tree and give it an unnatural appearance. Prune branches in a way that will enhance the overall structure of the tree and allow for more air circulation.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

The laurel oak typically starts flowering in April.

Hardiness Map