Source: bing.comContents
Description
Quercus Engelmannii, commonly known as Engelmann oak, is a deciduous tree native to California and northern Mexico. This oak tree belongs to the Fagaceae family, which also includes beeches and chestnuts. Engelmann oak is a slow-growing tree that can reach a height of 50-75 feet with a trunk diameter of 2-3 feet. It has a broad and round crown with a grayish-brown bark that is deeply furrowed.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fagales |
| Family | Fagaceae |
| Genus | Quercus |
Appearance
Engelmann oak has dark green, glossy leaves that are 2-4 inches long, with shallow lobes and spiny tips. The leaves turn yellow or brown in the fall before shedding. This tree produces acorns that are round and 1-2 inches long, with a shallow cup that covers about one-third of the nut. The acorns mature in the fall and are an important food source for many animals such as squirrels, deer, and birds.
Care Guide
To care for Engelmann oak, it is important to provide the right amount of water, fertilization, soil, sunlight, and hardiness zones. This tree prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic, with a pH of 5.5-6.5. It can tolerate drought conditions but needs regular watering during the first few years of growth. Fertilize the tree in the spring and fall using a balanced fertilizer. Engelmann oak prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Engelmann oak is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including oak root fungus, oak wilt, and oak leaf blister. Oak root fungus can cause root rot, which can lead to the death of the tree. Oak wilt is a fungal disease that can cause wilting and death of the tree. Oak leaf blister is a fungal infection that causes raised blisters on the leaves. To prevent these diseases, avoid overwatering and provide good drainage. Prune infected branches and dispose of them properly.
Habitat
Engelmann oak is native to California and northern Mexico, where it grows in canyons, hillsides, and slopes. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types and prefers areas with moderate rainfall. This tree is an important component of the oak woodland ecosystem, providing food and habitat for many wildlife species.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Engelmann oak grow in cold climates?
A: No, Engelmann oak is not suitable for cold climates as it is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Q: How often should I fertilize Engelmann oak?
A: Fertilize the tree in the spring and fall using a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is oak wilt?
A: Oak wilt is a fungal disease that can cause wilting and death of the tree.
Q: What animals eat Engelmann oak acorns?
A: Squirrels, deer, and birds are some of the animals that eat Engelmann oak acorns.
Related Plants
- Quercus agrifolia (Coast Live Oak)
- Quercus lobata (Valley Oak)
- Quercus suber (Cork Oak)
- Quercus virginiana (Live Oak)
References
- “Engelmann Oak.” USDA Forest Service. Accessed 7 May 2021. https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/tree/queeng/all.html
- “Quercus Engelmannii.” Calflora. Accessed 7 May 2021. https://www.calflora.org/app/taxon?crn=2136
- “Engelmann Oak.” California Native Plant Society. Accessed 7 May 2021. https://www.cnps.org/gardening/gardening-with-natives/engelmann-oak
