Live Oak — Growing reference
| Scientific name | Quercus virginiana |
|---|---|
| Seed germination (days) | 7–21 |
| Soil temperature for germination (°C) | 15.6–21.1 |
| First harvest or flowering (days) | 1095–3650 |
| Measured from | Transplant |
| Plant spacing (cm) | 914.4–1828.8 |
| Mature height (cm) | 914.4–1828.8 |
| Mature spread (cm) | 1219.2–3048 |
| USDA hardiness zones | 8–11 |
| Light | Full sun |
| Water | Low |
| Sowing method | Transplant |
Growing directions
Plant in well-drained, sandy to loamy, slightly acidic to neutral soil in full sun; live oak is the defining tree of the Gulf Coast landscape, forming magnificent broad, sweeping canopies of twisted horizontal branches draped with Spanish moss, with a single mature tree providing habitat for hundreds of species of insects, birds, and wildlife. The leaves are semi-evergreen in zone 8 (dropping briefly in late winter as new leaves emerge) and evergreen in zone 9–10. It tolerates salt spray, sandy soils, and periodic drought once established and grows steadily — 1–2 feet per year when young. The small acorns are critically important fall and winter food for blue jays, wild turkeys, squirrels, and deer. Plant far from structures and utility lines — mature trees reach 40–60 feet tall with 60–100 foot spread. A heritage landscape tree meant for centuries.
Source and local conditions
Typical planning ranges from OpenPlantDB (CC0). Cultivar, climate, season and growing method can change these values. Confirm the seed label and local guidance before planting.
Source & verification
OpenPlantDB · CC0