25. Quercus agrifolia, Coast Live Oak

 

Quercus agrifolia, Coast Live Oak

Quercus agrifolia, Coast Live Oak , leaves and acorns

 

25. Coast Live Oak, Quecus agrifolia 

Artist’s Note:

Quercus agrifolia thrives on the coastal range in California. Its signature appearance – a massive crown often many times wider that its height—forms a dramatic silhouette against the sky. In old age, this evergreen develops a great gnarled trunk and horizontal spreading branches. Its spiny leathery leaves deter nibblers. Many living things depend on it for sustenance. Its acorns are a food source for birds, animals and humans. Insects and caterpillars that live in its crown are food for song birds and nestlings. Indigenous people made an edible mash from its leached acorns.  Thanks to the California scrub jay, Aphelocoma californica, which buries the acorns propagation is ensured.

At LBH&G, this large, aging specimen is protected from Sudden Oak Death by its isolation in the landscape. A sturdy fence keeps people from stepping onto its drip line. Great care is taken to preserve this fine tree, which is emblematic of the deeply revered Northern California coastal oak. 

Vulgo: Coast Live Oak

 

Name: Quercus agrifolia

 

Family: Fagaceae

Habit: Tree

Height: 60 ft (18 M)

Native to: Coastal California 

 

Leaf type: Simple 

 

Shape: Oval

 

Margin and tip: Spinose 

 

Venation: Pinnate

 

Surface: Leathery 

 

Size: 3 in (2 cm)

 

Arrangement: Alternate

Pen and ink: Amber R Turner © 2020