Source: bing.comContents
Description
Quercus Fusiformis, also known as the Escarpment Live Oak or Plateau Live Oak, is a species of oak tree native to the southern United States. It can be found growing on rocky slopes, ridges, and plateaus from central Texas to southwestern Oklahoma and southern Arkansas. This slow-growing tree can live up to 500 years and can reach a height of 50 feet with a spread of up to 80 feet.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fagales |
| Family | Fagaceae |
| Genus | Quercus |
Appearance
The Quercus Fusiformis has a rounded, spreading crown with a dense canopy of dark green, glossy, evergreen leaves. The leaves are oblong to elliptical in shape, with a length of 2-4 inches and a width of 1-2 inches. They have a leathery texture and are smooth on the top surface while the underside is covered in fine hairs. The tree produces acorns that are ovoid in shape, with a cup that covers about one-third of the nut.
Care Guide
Quercus Fusiformis is a low maintenance tree that is drought-resistant and requires little care once established. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a variety of soil types, including alkaline soils. The tree should be watered regularly during its first year of growth to help it establish deep roots. Fertilization is not needed, but a layer of organic mulch can be added around the base of the tree to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. The tree prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. It can grow in hardiness zones 7b to 10a.
Common Pests & Diseases
Quercus Fusiformis is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to oak wilt, a fungal disease that can be fatal to the tree. Symptoms of oak wilt include wilting leaves, discoloration of the leaves, and dieback of branches. The disease is spread by beetles that are attracted to fresh wounds on the tree. To prevent oak wilt, avoid pruning the tree during the growing season and seal any wounds immediately after pruning. Other pests that can affect the tree include oak leafrollers, oak skeletonizers, and oak mites.
Habitat
Quercus Fusiformis is native to the southern United States and can be found growing on rocky slopes, ridges, and plateaus from central Texas to southwestern Oklahoma and southern Arkansas. It is commonly found in dry, rocky, or sandy soils and is often associated with other drought-resistant plants such as mesquite, juniper, and yucca. The tree plays an important ecological role in its habitat by providing shelter and food for a variety of wildlife, including birds, squirrels, and deer.
Question and Answer
Q: How long can Quercus Fusiformis live?
A: Quercus Fusiformis can live up to 500 years.
Q: What is the ideal growing condition for Quercus Fusiformis?
A: Quercus Fusiformis prefers well-drained soils and can grow in hardiness zones 7b to 10a.
Q: What pests can affect Quercus Fusiformis?
A: Quercus Fusiformis can be affected by oak wilt, oak leafrollers, oak skeletonizers, and oak mites.
Q: What is the ecological role of Quercus Fusiformis?
A: Quercus Fusiformis provides shelter and food for a variety of wildlife, including birds, squirrels, and deer.
Related Plants
- Quercus Agrifolia
- Quercus Alba
- Quercus Coccinea
- Quercus Palustris
- Quercus Rubra
References
- “Quercus Fusiformis.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center – The University of Texas at Austin, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=QUFU. Accessed 19 Apr. 2021.
- “Quercus Fusiformis.” Texas A&M Forest Service, texastreeid.tamu.edu/content/TreeDetails/?id=100. Accessed 19 Apr. 2021.
- “Escarpment Live Oak.” Garden Design, www.gardendesign.com/trees/quercus-fusiformis.html. Accessed 19 Apr. 2021.
