Source: bing.comContents
Description
Quercus Wislizeni, commonly known as the California Live Oak, is a large deciduous tree that belongs to the Fagaceae (beech family) family. This tree species is native to California and is often found in the foothills and valleys of the state. The California Live Oak is known for its longevity and can live for more than 500 years under favorable environmental conditions. This tree species has a massive trunk and can reach up to 60 feet in height and 80 feet in width.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fagales |
| Family | Fagaceae |
| Genus | Quercus |
Appearance
The California Live Oak has a distinctive appearance with its dark green, leathery leaves that are 2-3 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The leaves are oblong and have toothed margins. This tree species is deciduous, and its leaves change color from green to yellow or brown in the fall. The California Live Oak produces acorns that are 1-2 inches long and have a shiny, brown outer shell. The tree has a large, spreading canopy that provides excellent shade and shelter, making it a popular choice for landscaping.
Care Guide
The California Live Oak is a hardy tree that requires minimal maintenance. Here are some tips for caring for this tree species:- Water: The California Live Oak thrives in well-drained soil and requires moderate watering during the growing season. However, it is important not to overwater the tree as this can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: This tree species does not require regular fertilization. However, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring to promote healthy growth.- Soil: The California Live Oak grows best in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH between 5.0 and 6.5.- Sunlight: This tree species prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: The California Live Oak is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The California Live Oak is susceptible to various pests and diseases, including:- Oak root rot: This fungal disease can cause the tree to die slowly over time. Symptoms include wilting leaves, yellowing foliage, and stunted growth.- Oak worm: The oak worm is a type of caterpillar that feeds on the leaves of the California Live Oak. Infested trees may have stripped foliage and reduced growth.- Oak gall: This disease is caused by a tiny wasp that lays its eggs on the tree. The tree forms a protective gall around the eggs, which can lead to reduced growth and weakened branches.
Habitat
The California Live Oak is native to California and is often found in the foothills and valleys of the state. This tree species prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate drought conditions. The California Live Oak is an important component of the California oak woodland ecosystem and provides habitat and food for various wildlife species, including deer, squirrels, and birds.
Question and Answer
Q: How long does the California Live Oak live?
A: The California Live Oak can live for more than 500 years under favorable environmental conditions.
Q: What is the best soil pH for the California Live Oak?
A: The California Live Oak grows best in slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.0 and 6.5.
Q: What are some common pests that affect the California Live Oak?
A: The California Live Oak is susceptible to oak root rot, oak worm, and oak gall.
Q: Where is the California Live Oak native to?
A: The California Live Oak is native to California.
Related Plants
– Quercus agrifolia (California Coast Live Oak)- Quercus lobata (Valley Oak)- Quercus palmeri (Palmer’s Oak)- Quercus kelloggii (California Black Oak)
References
– “Quercus wislizeni.” Calflora. https://www.calflora.org/cgi-bin/species_query.cgi?where-taxon=Quercus+wislizeni (accessed August 28, 2021).- “California Live Oak.” The Morton Arboretum. https://www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/california-live-oak (accessed August 28, 2021).- “Quercus wislizeni.” USDA Plants Database. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=quwi2 (accessed August 28, 2021).
