Valley Oak

(Quercus lobata)

Valley Oak (Quercus lobata)

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Image By: Public domain

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Copyright Notice: Photo by: Public domain | License Type: Public domain | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/public-domain/ | Uploader: KP Botany~commonswiki | Publisher: Wikimedia Commons | Title: Quercus_lobata_leaves_Caswell_Memorial_State_Park_San_Joaquin_Valley_California.jpg | Notes: Transferred from Flickr via [[Commons:Flickr2Commons|Flickr2Commons]] |

Estimated Native Range

Summary

Quercus lobata, commonly known as the Valley Oak or Roble, is a deciduous tree native to the interior valleys and foothills of California, ranging from Siskiyou County to Los Angeles County. It is typically found in riparian zones, oak woodlands, and mixed evergreen forests, where it often dominates the landscape. The Valley Oak is the largest of North American oaks, reaching heights of 45-70 feet (14-21 meters) and widths of 30-50 feet (9-15 meters). Mature specimens can live up to 600 years. This species is characterized by its deeply lobed leaves, thick trunk, and a broad, spreading canopy. The acorns are an important food source for wildlife. In the fall, the leaves turn a golden yellow, adding seasonal interest.

The Valley Oak is valued for its majestic stature, longevity, and habitat value for wildlife. It is used in large landscapes, such as parks and naturalized areas, and is also an important species for restoration projects. It requires access to groundwater and is adapted to the Mediterranean climate of its native range, with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. It thrives in full sun and prefers soils with medium to fast drainage. While it is drought-tolerant once established, young trees benefit from supplemental watering during dry periods. Potential problems include oak root fungus and sudden oak death, which can be mitigated with proper care and monitoring.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

Plant Type: Tree
Height: 45-70 feet
Width: 30-50 feet
Growth Rate: Moderate
Flower Color: N/A
Flowering Season: Spring
Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

Sun: Full Sun
Water: Medium
Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Erosion Control, Fire Resistant, Rabbit Resistant

Natural Habitat

Interior valleys and foothills, riparian zones, oak woodlands, and mixed evergreen forests

Other Names

Common Names: California White Oak, Overcup Oak, Roble

Scientific Names: , Quercus lobata, Quercus hindsii, Quercus lobata var. turbinata, Quercus longiglanda, Quercus hindsiana, Quercus lobata f. argillora, Quercus lobata f. insperata, Quercus lobata subsp. turbinata, Quercus lobata subsp. walteri

GBIF Accepted Name: Quercus lobata Née