Quercus hemisphaerica

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Smithsonian Gardens, Tree Collection, Photograph by Hannele Lahti

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Smithsonian Gardens, Tree Collection, Photograph by Hannele Lahti

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Growing Info

Scarification: Soak in water, let stand in water for 24 hours

Stratification: cold stratify for 60 days , or until radicle emergence

Germination: sow seed 3/4" deep, tamp the soil, mulch the seed bed

Other: fall sowing in mulched beds is preferred to artificial stratification

Native to: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, United States, Virginia

Native

Introduced

Quercus hemisphaericaQuercus hemisphaerica

Darlington Oak, Laurel Oak, Laurel-leaf Oak, Sand Laurel Oak

Recalcitrant seeds require refrigeration and are sensitive during shipping. As transit time and carrier handling are beyond our control, seed condition upon arrival may vary.

Quercus hemisphaerica

Quantity

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Details

Min. hardiness zone:

Characteristics

No Export to These Countries

New Zealand

Growing Info

Scarification: Soak in water, let stand in water for 24 hours

Stratification: cold stratify for 60 days , or until radicle emergence

Germination: sow seed 3/4" deep, tamp the soil, mulch the seed bed

Other: fall sowing in mulched beds is preferred to artificial stratification

Native to: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, United States, Virginia

Native

Introduced

Quercus hemisphaerica, commonly known as Darlington Oak or Sand Laurel Oak, is an adaptable, rapidly growing native tree that reaches heights of up to 60 feet. Characterized by its evergreen to tardily deciduous nature, it thrives in the dry, sandy soils of sandhills, dry hammocks, and maritime forests from southeastern Virginia to central Florida and as far west as southern Texas. Valued for its moderate salt tolerance, this tree is a popular choice for shade in urban settings and naturalized areas.

Darlington Oak is distinguished by its leathery, elliptic leaves, which stay on the tree until new growth in spring, and its small, biennial acorns, which are a favorite among wildlife. As a host plant, it supports the larvae of the Imperial Moth and a range of butterflies, adding ecological value to any landscape. With bark that transitions from smooth to furrowed over time and a rounded mature form, it offers visual appeal throughout its lifecycle.

While its lifespan of approximately 50 years and susceptibility to diseases may limit its desirability for home landscaping, its ability to provide quick, dense shade makes it a reliable choice for urban environments. Emphasizing the importance of selecting the appropriate growing region, Darlington Oak emerges as a beautiful, functional component of southeastern U.S. ecosystems.