Other Names:  Californian White Oak, Roble

Description:

A massive and stately California native, with an artistic, wide-spreading habit of growth and golden-orange fall color; only for large landscapes; requires a consistent groundwater supply; slow growing, site for the enjoyment of future generations

Ornamental Features

Valley Oak has dark green foliage with grayish green undersides on a tree with an upright spreading habit of growth. The glossy lobed leaves turn outstanding shades of gold and in the fall. It produces brown acorns from late summer to mid fall. The fruit can be messy if allowed to drop on the lawn or walkways, and may require occasional clean-up. The furrowed dark gray bark adds an interesting dimension to the landscape.

Landscape Attributes

Valley Oak is a dense deciduous tree with an upright spreading habit of growth. Its average texture blends into the landscape, but can be balanced by one or two finer or coarser trees or shrubs for an effective composition.

This tree will require occasional maintenance and upkeep, and is best pruned in late winter once the threat of extreme cold has passed. It is a good choice for attracting squirrels to your yard. Gardeners should be aware of the following characteristic(s) that may warrant special consideration;

• Messy

Valley Oak is recommended for the following landscape applications;

• Shade

Planting & Growing

Valley Oak will grow to be about 90 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 70 feet. It has a low canopy with a typical clearance of 4 feet from the ground, and should not be planted underneath power lines. It grows at a slow rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live to a ripe old age of 500 years or more; think of this as a heritage tree for future generations!

This tree does best in full sun to partial shade. It prefers to grow in average to moist conditions, and shouldn't be allowed to dry out. This plant does not require much in the way of fertilizing once established. It is not particular as to soil type or pH. It is somewhat tolerant of urban pollution. This species is native to parts of North America.