Quercus Parvula
Source: bing.comContents
Description
Quercus Parvula is a small oak tree that is native to California. Also known as the shrub oak or island oak, it is a member of the Fagaceae family. The scientific name of this species is Quercus Parvula, and it is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 20 feet tall. It has a rounded crown, with a dense and spreading form. This tree has a moderate growth rate and can live for up to 150 years.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fagales |
| Family: | Fagaceae |
| Genus: | Quercus |
Appearance
Quercus Parvula has dark green leaves that are 1-2 inches long and deeply lobed. The leaves turn yellow or reddish-brown in the fall before dropping. This tree produces acorns that are 0.5-0.75 inches long and have a shallow cap. The bark of Quercus Parvula is gray-brown and smooth when young, becoming rough and furrowed with age. The wood of this tree is hard and strong, making it useful for construction and furniture making.
Care Guide
Quercus Parvula prefers well-draining soil and full sun. It can tolerate some shade, but this may result in a more open form. This tree is drought-tolerant once established, but it should be watered regularly during the first few years of growth. Fertilizer is not usually necessary, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote growth. Quercus Parvula is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Quercus Parvula is generally considered to be resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to oak root fungus, particularly if the soil is poorly drained. Aphids and caterpillars may also infest this tree, but they are usually not a serious problem.
Habitat
Quercus Parvula is native to California, where it is found in coastal sage scrub, chaparral, and oak woodland habitats. It is typically found on dry slopes and ridges, and it is often associated with other oak species such as Quercus agrifolia and Quercus berberidifolia. This tree is an important component of the California oak woodland ecosystem, providing habitat and food for a variety of wildlife.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Quercus Parvula be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Quercus Parvula can be grown in containers, but it may not reach its full size.Q: Does Quercus Parvula require pruning?
A: Quercus Parvula does not usually require pruning, but it can be pruned to maintain its shape or remove damaged branches.Q: How often should Quercus Parvula be watered?
A: Quercus Parvula should be watered regularly during the first few years of growth, but it is drought-tolerant once established.Q: What is the significance of Quercus Parvula in California’s ecosystem?
A: Quercus Parvula is an important component of the California oak woodland ecosystem, providing habitat and food for a variety of wildlife.
Related Plants
- Quercus agrifolia
- Quercus berberidifolia
- Quercus chrysolepis
- Quercus douglasii
- Quercus lobata
References
- “Quercus parvula.” Calflora. Accessed 5 Oct. 2021. <https://www.calflora.org/app/taxon?crn=3096>.
- Grossinger, Robin M., et al. “Historical Ecology of California’s Central Valley.” University of California Press, 2019.
- McMinn, Howard E. “An Illustrated Manual of California Shrubs.” University of California Press, 1939.
