Quercus virginiana aka Southern Live Oak
Taxonomy ID: 1232
Quercus virginiana, also known as the Southern Live Oak, is an iconic, medium-sized showy evergreen tree endemic to the Southeastern United States which may grow 40 to 80 feet tall. It has a broad crown, rarely grows over 50 feet tall with gnarled branches reaching out to 40 to 100 feet wide. Its bark is dark, thick and furrowed longitudinally with the leaves being stiff and leathery, with the tops shiny dark green and the bottoms pale gray and very tightly tomentose, simple and typically flattish with bony-opaque margins, with a length of .75 - 6 inches (2 – 15 cm) and a width of .4 - 2 inches (1 – 5 cm). Live oaks derive their name from the fact that they are evergreen and the fact that they send up many sprouts if lumbered or injured. It also produces a 3/4-inch acorn with a warty cap that covers about 1/3 of the nut. There are very large and old specimens of Live Oak found in the Deep South region of the United States.
Common names
Southern Live Oak, Live Oak, Virginia Live OakMore information about Southern Live Oak
How difficult is it to take care of Southern Live Oak
Southern Live Oak presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.
What is the region of origin of Southern Live Oak
Southern Live Oak’s native range is South-eastern N. America - Virginia to Florida and Texas.
What are the water needs for Southern Live Oak
Southern Live Oak should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
What is the right soil for Southern Live Oak
Southern Live Oak loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
What is the sunlight requirement for Southern Live Oak
Southern Live Oak thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Virginia Live Oak.
How to fertilize Southern Live Oak
The Southern Live Oak grows at a slow pace and doesn't require any supplementary fertilizers. By renewing its potting soil once a year, it should receive enough nourishment. Remember, plants obtain their energy from sunlight, not fertilizers.
Is Southern Live Oak toxic to humans/pets?
Southern Live Oak is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.
What seasonal care does Southern Live Oak need?
During the wintertime, it's common for Southern Live Oak to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more.
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