California Scrub Oak
Quercus duratafam. Fagaceae
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Pl. 4CFB — Quercus durata
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IOverview
Overview
California Scrub Oak, scientifically known as Quercus durata, is a shrub to small tree native to California. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist soil that can be medium or heavy (clay). This oak species grows up to 4 meters tall and is hardy in zones 7-10. Known for its edible acorns, which are an important food source for wildlife and historically for indigenous peoples, California Scrub Oak also serves as a valuable ornamental plant due to its attractive form. One distinctive feature of this oak is its ability to grow in a variety of soil types while maintaining its adaptability to different light conditions.
Quick answers
What is California Scrub Oak?
California Scrub Oak, scientifically known as Quercus durata, is a shrub to small tree native to California. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist soil that can be medium or heavy (clay). This oak species grows up to 4 meters tall and is hardy in zones 7-10.
What is California Scrub Oak used for?
Traditionally used for digestion. Each claim is evidence-rated — see Section II for full citations.
Best for
Top 1 evidence-ranked use of California Scrub Oak
Clinicaluses · safety · chemistry · dosagemedicinal profile
IIBenefits & evidence
1 claim · 0 sources
Benefits & evidence
1 claim · 0 sources- California Scrub Oak has been traditionally used in Native American medicine for digestive issues, similar to other oak species. A decoction of the bark or leaves may help soothe an upset stomach and reduce bloating.
The tannins present in oak species can have astringent effects on the gastrointestinal tract, helping to reduce inflammation and ease discomfort associated with digestive issues. However, the specific mechanism for digestion support is not fully characterised.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
California Scrub Oak support blend
generaltea
AI returned a direct ingredient list; normalized into one draft blend for editorial review.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
California Scrub Oak (Quercus durata) thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that is medium to heavy, such as clay. It grows well in hardiness zones 7-10 and can reach heights of up to 4 meters, adapting to both shrub-like and tree forms. For propagation, seeds are the recommended method. Ensure the plant has adequate moisture, especially during dry periods, for optimal growth.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
7-10
Habit
Shrub, Tree
Mature size
4.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow California Scrub Oak for the first time
8steps
Start with planting California Scrub Oak in a sunny spot and follow these simple steps for success.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or young plants, garden gloves, trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant seeds in spring after the last frost or transplant young plants anytime from late winter to early fall.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure soil is well-draining but moisture-retentive. Amend heavy clay with organic matter if needed.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
For seeds, sow them shallowly in a sunny spot. For young plants, dig a hole twice as wide and deep as the root ball.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun or partial shade. Water when dry, especially in summer. Prune lightly to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune young plants to encourage a strong structure. Harvest acorns for food after they mature.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting to prune, and not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Seed
Edible uses: Coffee
Other uses:Tannin
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
1 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
1 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 1 native
Broader regions
native:California
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.
shared use cases
Different families, similar therapeutic role — good for comparing.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
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