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Description
Quercus Sinuata Var. Breviloba, commonly known as the canyon live oak, is a species of oak tree native to California. It is a large evergreen tree that can grow up to 80 feet tall and 50 feet wide. Its trunk can reach up to 3 feet in diameter and has a rough, dark gray bark with deep furrows.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fagales |
| Family | Fagaceae |
| Genus | Quercus |
| Species | Quercus Sinuata |
| Variety | Breviloba |
Appearance
The leaves of Quercus Sinuata Var. Breviloba are dark green and have a wavy shape with deep lobes. They can grow up to 5 inches long and 3 inches wide. The tree produces acorns that are about 1 inch long and have a shallow cup. The wood of the canyon live oak is hard and dense, making it a popular choice for furniture and flooring.
Care Guide
Quercus Sinuata Var. Breviloba prefers well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. It requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry periods. Fertilize the tree once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. The tree likes full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The canyon live oak is susceptible to various pests and diseases, including oak root fungus, oak moth, and oak worm. Additionally, the tree can be affected by sudden oak death, a disease caused by a fungus-like organism that can kill oak trees within a few weeks.
Habitat
Quercus Sinuata Var. Breviloba is native to California and is commonly found in canyons, valleys, and foothills. It prefers to grow in areas with moist soil and full sun. The tree is an important component of California’s ecosystem, providing food and habitat for various wildlife species.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Quercus Sinuata Var. Breviloba a fast-growing tree?
A: No, it is a slow-growing tree.
Q: Can the acorns of the canyon live oak be eaten by humans?
A: Yes, but they require processing to remove the bitter tannins.
Q: Is Quercus Sinuata Var. Breviloba a good choice for a shade tree?
A: Yes, it is an excellent choice for a shade tree.
Q: Does the canyon live oak require pruning?
A: Yes, it requires occasional pruning to remove dead or damaged branches.
Related Plants
- Quercus Agrifolia
- Quercus Lobata
- Quercus Kelloggii
- Quercus Chrysolepis
References
- California Native Plant Society. (n.d.). Quercus Sinuata var. breviloba. Retrieved from https://www.calscape.org/Quercus-sinuata-var-breviloba-(Canyon-Live-Oak)
- University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. (n.d.). Canyon live oak. Retrieved from https://ucanr.edu/sites/oak_range/California_native_oaks/Quercus_sinuata_var._breviloba__canyon_live_oak_
- USDA Forest Service. (n.d.). Quercus sinuata var. breviloba. Retrieved from https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/tree/quebre/
