Live Oak
Quercus chrysolepisfam. Fagaceae
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Pl. B9F8 — Quercus chrysolepis
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IOverview
Overview
Live Oak (Quercus chrysolepis), a member of the Fagaceae family, is a tall tree native to the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico, including regions such as Arizona, California, Nevada, New Mexico, and Oregon. This tree thrives in habitats ranging from coastal areas to inland regions, often found in full or partial sun with moist, medium to heavy (clay) soil. Live Oak can grow up to 25 meters tall and is adaptable to soil pH levels between 4.5 and 7.5, making it a resilient addition to landscapes in hardiness zones 8-11. The Live Oak is not only ornamental but also serves as an important source of food and medicine. Its edible acorns have been a valuable resource for indigenous peoples, providing a nutritious food source. The bark of the Live Oak has been used medicinally, though caution is advised when using any part of the plant for medicinal purposes. Cultivators can propagate Live Oak via seed, ensuring the soil remains moist and the pH level is within the optimal range for healthy growth.
Quick answers
What is Live Oak?
Live Oak (Quercus chrysolepis), a member of the Fagaceae family, is a tall tree native to the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico, including regions such as Arizona, California, Nevada, New Mexico, and Oregon.
IV·bMixology suggestions
2 drafts
Mixology suggestions
2 draftsEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Oak and Willow
immunetincture
Historically used for immune support.
Oak and Sage
digestiondecoction
Traditionally aids in digestion.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Live Oak thrives in full to partial sun, requiring moist, medium to heavy (clay) soil with a pH between 4.5 and 7.5. It is hardy in zones 8-11, making it suitable for temperate regions. For propagation, seeds can be used. This tree can grow up to 25 meters tall and is native to Arizona, California, Nevada, New Mexico, and parts of Mexico.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
8-11
Habit
Shrub, Tree
Mature size
25.0 m tall
Soil pH
4.5–7.5
For first-time growers
How to grow Live Oak for the first time
7steps
Start with a young Live Oak sapling for the best beginner experience.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Live Oak sapling, garden gloves, and a shovel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring or fall when temperatures are mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining with a pH between 4.5 and 7.5. Amend heavy clay soils if necessary.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young saplings directly into the ground, ensuring they are planted at the same depth as in their container.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for signs of stress and adjust watering accordingly.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun or partial shade, depending on the location. Water deeply once a week during dry periods. Fertilize sparingly in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune young trees to shape them and remove any dead or diseased branches. Mature Live Oaks do not require regular harvesting.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Seed
Edible uses: Coffee
Other uses:DyeFire starterTanninLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
7 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
7 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 7 native
Broader regions
native:Arizona, California, Mexico Northeast, Mexico Northwest, Nevada, New Mexico, 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
Native to
XII
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