Live Oak

Attributes:
The Live Oak tree has been called majestic, romantic, and "one of the most impressive trees in North America." They will thrive in almost any location and have superior wind resistance. The character of Live Oaks can change dramatically with location, however. On drier sites it assumes a dwarf form and near the northern climates it drops its leaves in the fall like any ordinary broad-leaf tree.

Wildlife Value:
Sweet live oak acorns are at the top of the food preference list for birds such as wood ducks, wild turkeys, quail, and jays, and mammals such as squirrels, raccoons, and whitetail deer.

History/Lore/Use:
The Live Oak provides one of the most indelible images of the Old South. The huge branches of Live Oak festooned with Spanish Moss and spreading horizontally over grassy lawns conjure up images of antebellum plantations. The tree has long been a favorite tree not only for its beauty and shade, but for its strong and dense wood. It was once so valuable for wooden vessels that the Navy maintained its own Oak forests. The early Native Americans liked it too, extracting an oil from its sweet acorns that was something akin to modern olive oil. It earned its place in American history as the lumber used in the construction of the naval frigate USS Constitution, and when British cannon balls bounced off the hull during a battle, the vessel was thereafter known as "Old Ironsides."

Moisture:
Normal moisture requirements. Has some flooding and drought tolerance.

Leaves:
This tree's leaves are leathery, 2 to 5 inches long and usually have a smooth margin that rolls slightly downward and inward. They are dark, glossy green on top and paler beneath, often with fine down. The leaves persist into the following spring.

Flower Color:
Brown, faded.

Bloom Time:
April-May.

Fruit Description:
This tree produces acorns that are green, turning dark brown at maturity. They are about 3/4 inch long and borne singly or in clusters of up to 5.