Interior Live Oak
Quercus wislizeni
Also known as Sierra Live Oak, Chaparral Oak, Bush Interior Live Oak
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A drought-tolerant evergreen oak native to California's interior foothills, featuring small leaves and slow growth. It develops a sturdy, spreading form and requires minimal water once established, making it ideal for dry landscapes.
Why grow it
Interior live oak is among the most drought-tolerant native California oaks once established, requiring significantly less supplemental water than many ornamental deciduous species. Its evergreen habit and compact growth make it suitable for smaller landscapes where larger oak species would become unwieldy, while its dense foliage provides wildlife value comparable to other native oaks.
Watch out for
This species can be slow to establish in the first few years despite its eventual drought tolerance, so consistent (though infrequent) watering during the initial growing season supports better outcomes. Young trees may benefit from light structural pruning to develop a balanced form, though mature specimens typically require minimal intervention.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Fagaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
California interior foothills and Sierra Nevada foothills
Native to: California
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Harvest Season
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Years to Bearing
- Propagation
A drought-tolerant evergreen oak native to California's interior foothills, featuring small leaves and slow growth. It develops a sturdy, spreading form and requires minimal water once established, making it ideal for dry landscapes.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Interior Live Oak grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Interior live oak is among the most drought-tolerant native California oaks once established, requiring significantly less supplemental water than many ornamental deciduous species. Its evergreen habit and compact growth make it suitable for smaller landscapes where larger oak species would become unwieldy, while its dense foliage provides wildlife value comparable to other native oaks.
Watch out for
This species can be slow to establish in the first few years despite its eventual drought tolerance, so consistent (though infrequent) watering during the initial growing season supports better outcomes. Young trees may benefit from light structural pruning to develop a balanced form, though mature specimens typically require minimal intervention.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Fagaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
California interior foothills and Sierra Nevada foothills
Native to: California
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Harvest Season
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Years to Bearing
- Propagation
Similar canopy trees you might consider:
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