Lithocarpus densiflorus
Lithocarpus densiflorusfam. Fagaceae
Educational content — not medical, botanical, or professional advice. Plant identification, safety, and edibility depend on local conditions, cultivars, and correct identification. Consult a qualified botanist or forager before consuming or handling wild specimens. How we source & review →
Pl. E20B — Lithocarpus densiflorus
Lithocarpus densiflorusLithocarpus densiflorusLithocarpus densiflorusLithocarpus densiflorusLithocarpus densiflorusLithocarpus densiflorusLithocarpus densiflorusLithocarpus densiflorusLithocarpus densiflorusLithocarpus densiflorusLithocarpus densiflorusLithocarpus densiflorusLithocarpus densiflorusLithocarpus densiflorus
IOverview
Overview
Lithocarpus densiflorus, commonly known as tanoak or Oregon white oak, is a deciduous tree native to California and Oregon. This member of the beech family (Fagaceae) thrives in moist, well-drained soils with a pH ranging from 4.5 to 6.5. It prefers full sun to partial shade and can grow up to 10 meters tall. The tanoak is known for its edible seed, which is rich in nutrients and historically used by indigenous peoples. Its distinctive features include alternate, simple leaves with serrated margins and a distinctive bark that peels off in strips, revealing smooth inner layers.
Quick answers
What is Lithocarpus densiflorus?
Lithocarpus densiflorus, commonly known as tanoak or Oregon white oak, is a deciduous tree native to California and Oregon. This member of the beech family (Fagaceae) thrives in moist, well-drained soils with a pH ranging from 4.5 to 6.5. It prefers full sun to partial shade and can grow up to 10 meters tall.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Lithocarpus densiflorus thrives in full to partial sun and requires moist, well-drained soil with a pH between 4.5 and 6.5. It is hardy in zones 6-9 and can grow up to 10 meters tall. For propagation, seeds are the preferred method. Ensure the soil is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) for optimal growth.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
6-9
Mature size
10.0 m tall
Soil pH
4.5–6.5
For first-time growers
How to grow Lithocarpus densiflorus for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Lithocarpus densiflorus in a sunny spot and well-prepared soil for a rewarding beginner project.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or seedlings, garden gloves, trowel, watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure soil is well-draining with a pH between 4.5 and 6.5; amend as needed.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the ground or start seedlings indoors, then transplant outdoors after danger of frost passes.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged; monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide partial sun/shade, regular watering, and mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter/early spring to maintain shape; harvest seeds when ripe for planting.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, neglecting soil pH requirements, and not providing enough shade.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Seed
Edible uses: Oil
Other uses:DyeFire starteroilPreservativeTanninLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
2 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
2 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 2 native
Broader regions
native:California, Oregon
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Fagaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Fagaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
- Last updated
- Citation
- How to cite this entry · Submit a correction
Back to the cataloguePlant id · e20b662e-5668-4fcc-9cb3-82d44577758d
Decision aid
Choosing between Lithocarpus densiflorus and something else?
Continue reading
❦❦❦❦
Endpaper · archive updates
Get archive updates
Occasional email when substantial new content lands — plant profiles, seasonal growing notes, folk-remedy additions. Free, no tracking, unsubscribe anytime.