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Description
Quercus Gilva, also known as the Mexican White Oak, is a species of oak tree native to Mexico and parts of Central America. It belongs to the Fagaceae family, which includes other important hardwood species such as beeches and chestnuts. The tree is known for its distinctive white bark, which peels off in thin layers to reveal a smooth, pale gray surface underneath. Its leaves are deciduous and turn yellow or red in the fall, and it produces acorns that are an important food source for wildlife.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fagales |
| Family | Fagaceae |
| Genus | Quercus |
Appearance
The Mexican White Oak can grow up to 50 feet tall and 30 feet wide, with a spreading crown and a straight trunk. Its bark is smooth and white, often with horizontal lines, and it peels off in thin sheets. The leaves are dark green and glossy, with a distinctive lobed shape, and turn yellow or red in the fall. The tree produces acorns that are 1-2 inches long and have a striped cap.
Care Guide
Water: Quercus Gilva prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate some drought, but it should be watered deeply during dry spells.Fertilization: The tree does not require regular fertilization, but a slow-release fertilizer can be applied in the spring if desired.Soil: The Mexican White Oak prefers slightly acidic soil with good drainage.Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade.Hardiness Zones: Quercus Gilva is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Mexican White Oak is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to oak wilt, a fungal disease that can cause leaves to wilt and die. Other potential pests include oak leafrollers and oak shothole borers.
Habitat
Quercus Gilva is native to Mexico and parts of Central America, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including dry forests, savannas, and riparian areas. It is also commonly grown as an ornamental tree in gardens and parks.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the significance of the Mexican White Oak’s acorns?
A: The acorns of the Mexican White Oak are an important food source for wildlife, including birds, squirrels, and deer.Q: Can the Mexican White Oak tolerate drought?
A: Yes, the tree can tolerate some drought, but it should be watered deeply during extended dry spells.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Quercus Gilva?
A: The tree is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.Q: Is the Mexican White Oak susceptible to any diseases?
A: The tree can be susceptible to oak wilt, a fungal disease that can cause leaves to wilt and die.
Related Plants
Other species of oak that are related to Quercus Gilva include:
- Quercus alba (White Oak)
- Quercus rubra (Red Oak)
- Quercus palustris (Pin Oak)
- Quercus agrifolia (Coast Live Oak)
References
- “Quercus Gilva.” Flora of North America. Accessed October 25, 2021. https://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=233501952.
- “Quercus Gilva.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed October 25, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286835.
- “Mexican White Oak.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed October 25, 2021. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/st610.
