Laurel oak

The Laurel oak (Quercus laurifolia) is a medium sized evergreen or semi-evergreen oak in the red oak section Quercus sect. Lobatae. It is native to the southeast of the United States, from coastal Virgina to central Florida and as far west as southeast Texas.

It is a tree growing to 20-25 m tall, and has a large circular crown. The leaves are broad lanceolate, 5-10 cm long and 2-4 cm broad, and unlobed (very rarely three-lobed) with an entire margin and a bristle tip; they typically fall just as the new leaves start to emerge in spring. The acorns, borne in a shallow cup, are hemispherical, 9-12 mm long, green, maturing blackish-brown about 18 months after pollination. Despite their bitter kernel, they are eaten by deer, squirrels and birds. Acorn production is often heavy, enhancing the species' value for wildlife.

Uses

It is commonly used in landscaping because of its fast growth and pleasing appearance.

External link

• Florida Forest Trees: Laurel oak