Silverleaf Oak
Quercus hypoleucoides
Also listed as Quercus hypoleuca
Climate Match for your location
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A native Arizona oak with distinctive whitish undersides on its evergreen leaves, thriving in arid to semi-arid mountain regions. Valued for drought tolerance and as wildlife habitat, producing acorns that feed wildlife.
Why grow it
Silverleaf Oak offers reliable performance in low-water landscapes where many deciduous oaks struggle, particularly in USDA zones 7-9 at higher elevations. Its evergreen foliage provides year-round structure and wildlife value, while its smaller stature (typically 20-30 feet) makes it more manageable than larger oak species in confined spaces. The silvery leaf undersides create distinctive visual interest compared to common native oaks in eastern or central regions.
Watch out for
This species prefers well-draining soil and may show decline in poorly drained clay or compacted conditions, especially in lower elevations where humidity is higher. Young trees benefit from supplemental water during establishment (1-2 years) even in their native range, so avoid planting it in sites receiving regular lawn irrigation, which can encourage fungal issues.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Fagaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
Southwestern United States (Arizona, New Mexico, southern California)
Native to: Arizona, New Mexico, Texas
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A native Arizona oak with distinctive whitish undersides on its evergreen leaves, thriving in arid to semi-arid mountain regions. Valued for drought tolerance and as wildlife habitat, producing acorns that feed wildlife.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Silverleaf Oak grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Silverleaf Oak offers reliable performance in low-water landscapes where many deciduous oaks struggle, particularly in USDA zones 7-9 at higher elevations. Its evergreen foliage provides year-round structure and wildlife value, while its smaller stature (typically 20-30 feet) makes it more manageable than larger oak species in confined spaces. The silvery leaf undersides create distinctive visual interest compared to common native oaks in eastern or central regions.
Watch out for
This species prefers well-draining soil and may show decline in poorly drained clay or compacted conditions, especially in lower elevations where humidity is higher. Young trees benefit from supplemental water during establishment (1-2 years) even in their native range, so avoid planting it in sites receiving regular lawn irrigation, which can encourage fungal issues.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Fagaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
Southwestern United States (Arizona, New Mexico, southern California)
Native to: Arizona, New Mexico, Texas
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
Similar canopy trees you might consider:
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