Laurel Oak
(Quercus laurifolia)
Laurel Oak (Quercus laurifolia)
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Bruce Kirchoff
CC BY 2.0
Image By:
Bruce Kirchoff
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Copyright:
CC BY 2.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Bruce Kirchoff | License Type: CC BY 2.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/ | Uploader: Bruce Kirchoff | Publisher: Flickr |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Quercus laurifolia, commonly known as Laurel Oak, is a semi-deciduous to evergreen tree native to lowland wetlands, riverbanks, and moist woodlands in the Southeastern United States. It can grow to 20–24 meters (65–80 feet) tall, and in rare cases, up to 40 meters (130 feet), with a large, spreading crown that provides dense shade. The tree is characterized by its dark green, laurel-like leaves and a relatively short lifespan for an oak, typically maturing around 50 years. Acorn production is often heavy, offering significant value to wildlife as a food source.
Laurel Oak is valued for its rapid growth, adaptability to various soil types, and aesthetic appeal with its pleasing form. It is widely used in urban and suburban landscapes, along streets, and in parks. Despite its adaptability, it prefers full sun and can tolerate a range of water conditions, from medium to wet soils with slow to medium drainage. However, it is susceptible to a variety of problems, including root rot, wilt diseases, and wood decay, which can limit its lifespan and structural integrity. Gardeners should be aware of its potential to develop aggressive roots and its susceptibility to storm damage.CC BY-SA 4.0
Laurel Oak is valued for its rapid growth, adaptability to various soil types, and aesthetic appeal with its pleasing form. It is widely used in urban and suburban landscapes, along streets, and in parks. Despite its adaptability, it prefers full sun and can tolerate a range of water conditions, from medium to wet soils with slow to medium drainage. However, it is susceptible to a variety of problems, including root rot, wilt diseases, and wood decay, which can limit its lifespan and structural integrity. Gardeners should be aware of its potential to develop aggressive roots and its susceptibility to storm damage.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Tree
- Height: 45-60 feet
- Width: 35-45 feet
- Growth Rate: Rapid
- Flower Color: N/A
- Flowering Season: Spring
- Leaf Retention: Deciduous, Semi-Deciduous
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Medium
- Drainage: Slow, Medium
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Street Planting
Natural Habitat
Lowland wetlands, riverbanks, and moist woodlands
Other Names
Common Names: Swamp Laurel Oak
Scientific Names: , Quercus laurifolia, Quercus obtusa, Quercus phellos var. laurifolia, Quercus rhombica, Quercus obtusa var. obovatifolia, Quercus laurifolia var. hybrida, Quercus laurifolia var. tridentata, Quercus aquatica var. laurifolia, Quercus hybrida
GBIF Accepted Name: Quercus laurifolia Michx.