Netleaf Oak
Quercus rugosa
Also listed as Quercus reticulata, Quercus decipiens
Also known as Evergreen Oak
Climate Match for your location
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A drought-tolerant oak native to southwestern North America, characterized by distinctive wrinkled or rugose leaves that give it its common name. It is a slow-growing, multi-stemmed tree valuable for wildlife habitat and xeriscaping in arid regions.
Why grow it
Netleaf Oak is notably more drought-tolerant than many native oaks in the Southwest, making it a practical choice for water-limited landscapes without irrigation. Its multi-stemmed growth habit and dense canopy provide effective screening and wildlife food sources (acorns and browse), qualities that distinguish it from faster-growing but less resilient alternatives. The rugose foliage also offers visual texture in xeriscape designs where many drought-adapted species read as monotonously smooth or needle-like.
Watch out for
Growth is considerably slow, so patience is required before the plant reaches functional size for screening or windbreak purposes. Young trees benefit from occasional deep watering during establishment, even in arid regions, despite their ultimate drought tolerance. Like many oaks, Netleaf Oak can host various native insects and fungal associates; while these are typically benign or beneficial, they may require acceptance in a managed landscape.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Fagaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
Southwestern United States and Mexico
Native to: Arizona, New Mexico, Texas
Seasonality
Season of Interest
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A drought-tolerant oak native to southwestern North America, characterized by distinctive wrinkled or rugose leaves that give it its common name. It is a slow-growing, multi-stemmed tree valuable for wildlife habitat and xeriscaping in arid regions.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Netleaf Oak grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Netleaf Oak is notably more drought-tolerant than many native oaks in the Southwest, making it a practical choice for water-limited landscapes without irrigation. Its multi-stemmed growth habit and dense canopy provide effective screening and wildlife food sources (acorns and browse), qualities that distinguish it from faster-growing but less resilient alternatives. The rugose foliage also offers visual texture in xeriscape designs where many drought-adapted species read as monotonously smooth or needle-like.
Watch out for
Growth is considerably slow, so patience is required before the plant reaches functional size for screening or windbreak purposes. Young trees benefit from occasional deep watering during establishment, even in arid regions, despite their ultimate drought tolerance. Like many oaks, Netleaf Oak can host various native insects and fungal associates; while these are typically benign or beneficial, they may require acceptance in a managed landscape.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Fagaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
Southwestern United States and Mexico
Native to: Arizona, New Mexico, Texas
Seasonality
Season of Interest
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
Similar sub-canopy trees you might consider:
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