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Sand Live Oak
Quercus geminata
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| The Sand Live Oak is a small scrubby tree which
is found naturally on coastal dunes, in scrub ecosystems, or pine habitats. It has a
form similar to the larger live oak (Quercus virginiana var. virginiana).
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Leaves
Sand Live Oak trees have simple, alternate,
and persistant leaves that fall in the spring. Leaves vary in size from one location
to another, but are universally stiff, leathery, and oval to elliptical in shape, with an
obtuse or slightly acute apex. Leaf margins are entire and are commonly rolled
downward so that the blades have the appearance of an inverted, shallow boat. The midribs
and veins are somewhat impressed. Leaves are dark green and glabrous above, paler and
gray-pubescent below. Leaf petioles are very small and stout.
Flowers
The flowers are unisexual and monoecious
Fruit
The fruit is an acorn which varies in size and is ellipsoid in shape. The
nut, which is a great squirrel attractor, is ellipsoid and brownish-black in color.
Bark
The bark is dark red-brown, up to 1 inch thick, somewhat furrowed, and
separating into small scales.
Propagation
The Sand Live Oak tree can be grown
by seeds.
Landscape usage
This salt-tolerant oak is commonly planted along coastal areas. It can be used in a
corner planting and it makes an excellent specimen tree, especially for small lots.
Sand Live Oak will grow in even the poorest soil types so it is a perfect choice
for the sandy Florida landscape.
Interesting Facts
The wood of the sand live oak makes excellent firewood. |
Sand Live Oak
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Summary
Type: Tree
Salt Tolerant: Yes
Height: to 10m
Spread: N/A
Growth Rate: Fast
Light: Full sun-part shade
Water: Low
Hardiness: High
Native: Yes
Wildlife: Yes
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An acorn of the Sand Live Oak tree
For more detailed information on this
plant go to:
Volusia Extension |
