Tanoak
Notholithocarpus densiflorus
Also listed as Lithocarpus densiflorus, Pasania densiflora
Also known as Tanbark-oak
Climate Match for your location
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A large evergreen oak native to California with dense foliage and clusters of small flowers followed by acorn-like fruits. Slow-growing but long-lived, it thrives in Mediterranean climates with moderate water once established.
Why grow it
Tanoak grows larger and more densely than many California native oaks, making it valuable where substantial canopy cover and wildlife habitat are priorities. Unlike coast live oak or interior live oak, it produces a distinctive acorn crop that feeds wildlife, though the nuts themselves are less palatable to humans. Its evergreen foliage provides year-round screening and structure in Mediterranean gardens where deciduous alternatives would leave seasonal gaps.
Watch out for
Tanoak is slow to establish and can take several years to show significant growth, requiring patience and consistent moisture during the first few growing seasons. It prefers well-draining soil and may struggle in heavy clay or poorly aerated conditions common in developed landscapes.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Fagaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
California (coastal ranges and Sierra Nevada foothills)
Native to: California, Oregon
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Flood Tolerance
Deer Resistance
Inferred from USDA browse palatability
pH Range
Soil Texture
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Years to Bearing
- Propagation
A large evergreen oak native to California with dense foliage and clusters of small flowers followed by acorn-like fruits. Slow-growing but long-lived, it thrives in Mediterranean climates with moderate water once established.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Tanoak grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Tanoak grows larger and more densely than many California native oaks, making it valuable where substantial canopy cover and wildlife habitat are priorities. Unlike coast live oak or interior live oak, it produces a distinctive acorn crop that feeds wildlife, though the nuts themselves are less palatable to humans. Its evergreen foliage provides year-round screening and structure in Mediterranean gardens where deciduous alternatives would leave seasonal gaps.
Watch out for
Tanoak is slow to establish and can take several years to show significant growth, requiring patience and consistent moisture during the first few growing seasons. It prefers well-draining soil and may struggle in heavy clay or poorly aerated conditions common in developed landscapes.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Fagaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
California (coastal ranges and Sierra Nevada foothills)
Native to: California, Oregon
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Flood Tolerance
Deer Resistance
Inferred from USDA browse palatability
pH Range
Soil Texture
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Years to Bearing
- Propagation
Similar canopy trees you might consider:
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