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California Live-oak

Quercus chrysolepis

tree View on Calscape

Care

Sun

full sun, part shade

Water

very low

Soil

Medium; Found in a wide variety of soils in various parts of the state.

Size

30–90ft tall , 30–60ft wide

Bloom

Jan-Dec

Foliage

Evergreen

Deer

Resistant

Edible

Acorns leached and ground into flour for traditional food

Keystone Plant

Supports up to 275 butterfly and moth species in Mediterranean California

Native Range

Chaparral, oak woodlands, and mixed conifer forests throughout California mountains and foothills from 1000-7000 ft elevation, from Oregon to Baja California.

Care Guide

Planting

Plant your canyon live oak in full sun in a location with medium drainage - this tree adapts to a wide variety of soils, so don't overthink the soil type. Fall through early spring is the best planting window in the Bay Area. Space it with mature size in mind (30–90 feet depending on your microclimate), and avoid planting in areas prone to standing water, as this oak thrives in well-draining conditions despite its affinity for creek-side habitats.

After Planting

Water weekly for the first summer to establish roots, then dramatically reduce frequency - by year two, limit irrigation to a maximum of twice per month once established, since this is a very low-water tree. Your biggest mistake will be overwatering; canyon live oak is drought-tolerant and resents wet feet. Minimal pruning is needed - this tree regenerates vigorously on its own, and you can remove damaged branches in late winter if necessary.

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