Coast Live Oak
Quercus agrifolia · Fagaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around coast live oak and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Flowering
- Spring (April-May)
- Adult size
- 8 to 12 m in height
- Growth
- Moderate
- Hardiness
- -5 to 0 °C
- Origin
- California (United States)
- Soil type
- Well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral
Care
Exposure
Install your California Oak in full sun for optimal growth. It tolerates partial shade but will fruit better with 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight. Avoid areas exposed to strong winds that could damage its structure.
Watering
Once established, this oak is very drought-tolerant and only needs regular watering for the first two years. Water deeply but space out applications to encourage a robust root system. In Mediterranean or arid climates, reduce watering in summer.
Soil Preparation
Choose well-drained soil, as this tree dislikes waterlogging. Improve compacted soils with compost or coarse sand. A light application of organic matter at planting time is sufficient; this oak tolerates poor soils.
Pruning and Training
Pruning is generally unnecessary. Remove only dead, diseased or crossing branches in late winter. Let the tree develop naturally to respect its natural shape. Avoid severe pruning as it weakens the tree.
Fertilization
No fertilization is required after the first year. This oak is well-suited to poor, lightly fertilized soils. Excess nitrogen promotes growth at the expense of hardiness and may attract certain pests.
Prevention and Health
Generally hardy and little susceptible to disease. Watch for oak canker in humid climates and remove affected branches. Wood-boring insects are rare if the tree is vigorous. Avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot.
Did you know?
California Oak was long considered a precious resource by California's native peoples, who consumed its acorns after roasting and grinding. Today, it is emblematic of the California landscape and remains a must-have for Mediterranean gardens in dry areas, thanks to its remarkable water-saving properties.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Pedunculate oakQuercus robur
- European beechFagus sylvatica
- Sessile oakQuercus petraea
- Sweet chestnutCastanea sativa
- Downy oakQuercus pubescens
- Holm oakQuercus ilex
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.