Quercus microphylla, commonly known as Littleleaf Oak, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to the xeric scrublands and oak woodlands of Central and Southern Mexico. It is a slow-growing plant that rarely exceeds 60 centimeters (24 inches) in height, forming dense mats that can spread several meters wide. The leaves are diminutive for the genus, usually less than 35 millimeters (1.5 inches) long, and the plant is not known for showy flowers or fruit.

Quercus microphylla is valued for its ability to form a dense ground cover, making it suitable for erosion control and as a unique textural element in xeriscaping. It is also used in rock gardens and as a low-maintenance shrub in water-wise landscapes. This species thrives in full sun and requires well-drained soils, tolerating both medium and high water conditions. While it is not commonly found in cultivation outside its native range, it can be a conversation piece in a specialized collection of arid-land plants.CC BY-SA 4.0