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(Quercus durata)
Leather Oak (Quercus durata)
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Miguel Vieira
CC BY 4.0
Image By:
Miguel Vieira
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC BY 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Miguel Vieira | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ | Rights Holder: Miguel Vieira | Publisher: iNaturalist | Date Created: 2018-09-22T09:35-07:00 |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Quercus durata, commonly known as Leather Oak, is an evergreen shrub or small tree primarily native to the chaparral and coastal scrub regions of California. It is a member of the white oak group and is adapted to dry, rocky soils and hot summer climates. Leather Oak typically grows to 1–2 meters (3+1⁄2–6+1⁄2 feet) in diameter with a height of about 0.5–1.5 meters (1+1⁄2–5 feet), featuring a low, spreading habit with rigid branches and deep green, leathery leaves that contribute to its common name. The acorns are notable for their reddish or yellowish scaly cups that enclose up to half of the cylindrical nut. Flowering occurs in the spring, usually in April or May, with inconspicuous flowers.
Leather Oak is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive on difficult sites, making it suitable for xeriscaping and native plant gardens. It is also used for erosion control on hillsides and in restoration projects. This species prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade, requiring minimal water once established and well-drained soils. While it is not commonly afflicted by serious pests or diseases, it can be susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils. Leather Oak is not typically grown for its ornamental qualities, but it does play a significant role in supporting local wildlife, providing food and habitat.CC BY-SA 4.0
Leather Oak is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive on difficult sites, making it suitable for xeriscaping and native plant gardens. It is also used for erosion control on hillsides and in restoration projects. This species prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade, requiring minimal water once established and well-drained soils. While it is not commonly afflicted by serious pests or diseases, it can be susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils. Leather Oak is not typically grown for its ornamental qualities, but it does play a significant role in supporting local wildlife, providing food and habitat.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Shrub, Tree
- Height: 3-12 feet
- Width: 3-12 feet
- Growth Rate: Slow
- Flower Color: N/A
- Flowering Season: Spring
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Medium
- Drainage: Medium, Fast
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant
Natural Habitat
Primarily native to the chaparral and coastal scrub regions of California
Other Names
Common Names:
Scientific Names: , Quercus durata, Quercus dumosa subsp. durata,
GBIF Accepted Name: Quercus durata Jeps.