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This iconic evergreen tree of the south forms a wide spreading canopy and is often draped with Spanish moss. They are extremely resilient, which allows them to survive the severe weather patterns of the southern part of the country.

Latin Name

Quercus virginiana


Family

Fagaceae


Also Known As

Virginia Live Oak Southern Live Oak


Type of Plant

Trees Trees

Seasons

Summer Summer

Specifications

Max height Max Height: 80'
Max spread Max Spread: 100'

Uses

  • Shade Tree
  • Rain Garden

  • Sunlight Exposure

    Full Sun Full Sun

    Toxicity

    Do not ingest Do not ingest

    Colors


    Native Range

    Southeastern United States, Mexico


    History

    George Washington received a box of live oak plants and acorns from Mr. Josiah Parker of Norfolk, Virginia in March of 1785.


    Other Details

    Grown by Washington Grown by Washington

    Planted at Mount Vernon

    Planted at Mount Vernon Fruit Garden & Nursery

  • Fruit Garden & Nursery

  • Hardiness Zones

    8a 8b 9a 9b 10a 10b USDA basemap

    Average annual extreme minimum temperature 1976-2005

    map legend 8a 8b 9a 9b 10a 10b

    Bartlett Tree Expert Company has been working with Mount Vernon Estate since 2011 providing expert arboricultural care and GPS mapping for the estate’s historic trees, as well as support from their research facility.   Mount Vernon is proud to partner with Bartlett Tree Experts and appreciates their sponsorship of George Washington’s Mount Vernon Plant Finder App.

    Bring Washington's Garden Home

    Purchase our historic seeds, collected from plants grown at Mount Vernon and plant them in your own garden.

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