Discover the beauty and resilience of Interior Live Oak (Quercus wislizeni), an iconic evergreen species native to much of western California. Known for its slow growth and striking appearance, this oak features a broad crown, glossy dark green leaves, and uniquely reddish-brown bark that lend a formal elegance to any landscape. Flowering in the winter and spring, it produces green and white blooms, followed by distinctive, long, narrow acorns that mature in two years, providing a vital food source for deer and numerous other wildlife.
This adaptable species thrives across diverse elevations, from sea level to 5,000 feet, making it a staple in California's chaparral, pine, and oak woodlands. Interior Live Oak prefers dry, loamy soils, growing well in part to full shade, and is hardy in USDA Zones 6 to 10. It stands 30 to 75 feet tall, though it can also take on a shrubbier form in certain environments. Perfect for creating habitats, the tree's dense canopy and variable foliage support a wide array of animal life, making it a crucial component of its ecosystem. Ideal for those seeking a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant addition to their garden.
