Brief Intro:
Laurel oak (Quercus laurifolia) is a common, native, red oak in the southern landscape. Laurel oaks are quite tolerant of a wide range of soils, leading to their prevalence within their range. It is a relatively fast-growing shade tree. Versus other oaks, it possesses a rather short life span of 60-70 years even under the best conditions. The oak is semi-deciduous in its southern range. It retains many similar characteristics and is often confused with sand laurel oak (Quercus hemisphaerica) and water oak (Quercus nigra).
Habitat
Native to the southeastern and south-central United States, from coastal Virginia to central Florida, and west to southeast Texas. It will tolerate wet soils but does not do well with prolonged flooding. Moderately drought-tolerant. Grows well in full sun to partial shade. Hardiness zones 6B-10A.
Florida’s Urban Landscape
The laurel oak is a common urban tree, forming a shade canopy relatively quickly. Laurel oaks do not compartmentalize decay well. Mature and over-mature trees are susceptible to rapid interior decay within the trunk and lateral limbs. Interior decay can spread rapidly through entry points at storm-broken branches, improper trimming, and injuries. Therefore, a higher level of pruning maintenance may be required throughout its life span. The laurel oak grows in well-drained soils but will tolerate wet sites. It lends itself well to pruning with a branch structure that provides pruning options. Pruning is recommended for a strong structure. Overmature trees with declining foliage are susceptible to outbreaks of mistletoe. Large branches of overmature trees are susceptible to breakage, especially in high winds. Trees with low vigor are susceptible to Hypoxylon canker (Biscogniauxia atropunctatum).
Large diameter trunks and root flares can create conflicts with adjacent sidewalks and paved surfaces.
Form
Medium- to large-sized tree. Commonly taller than it is wide, having a potential height of 65-80ft, and a 35-45ft spread. The large, dense, symmetrical oval canopy provides for a great shade tree when mature. Mature trees can form large-diameter trunks and large root flares.
Leaves
Smooth, glossy, narrow, lanceolate shape with entire margins, rarely lobed, 1-5 inches long and ½ to 1 ¾ inches wide. Alternate leaf arrangement. The leaves tend to be two-toned, having dark green on top with a lighter green on the reverse side. The tree is semi-deciduous, shedding in the spring with the sprouting of new leaves.
Bark
Gray and smooth when young, forming shallow, flat ridges when mature.
Seeds
Acorns are oval/round, up to 1 inch long; blackish-brown when ripe; laurel oaks are a pollen producer, and acorn production can be heavy. Acorn production can begin at 15-20 years of age. Natural germination of fall stock may stay dormant in the ground until spring.
Laurel Oak Uses
- Ornamental shade tree for large lawns, wide rights-of-ways, and natural buffers.
- Oak diversity in urban oak inventories.
- A good food source for a variety of wildlife.
- Extensive interior decay provides hollows for cavity-nesting birds and mammals.
- Fuel wood
Little-Known Facts
One of the most cold-hardy of the southern, semi-deciduous oaks.
