Escarpment live oak
Quercus fusiformis 路 Fagaceae 路 also Plateau live oak, Texas live oak, Hill Country live oak
The live oak that actually grows wild across the Edwards Plateau and most Austin neighborhoods. It looks almost identical to Southern live oak but has smaller leaves, stays shorter (20-40 feet) and is more drought- and cold-hardy. It often grows in clonal groves connected by roots, which is part of why oak wilt spreads so easily through it.
Where it stands
Native
This tree evolved here, and local wildlife depends on it.
Recommended
A city, utility or extension service lists it among the trees it approves for planting here.
- 馃嚭馃嚫 Austin, TX, United States 路 On the City of Austin Grow Green native and adapted plant list (Watershed Protection). The live oak entry advises: if planting in shallow soil, use Escarpment Live Oak, Q. fusiformis, which is more drought tolerant.source
- 馃嚭馃嚫 Dallas, TX, United States 路 On the City of Dallas Article X Approved Tree Listsource
Care
Water deeply through the first two summers, then rarely. Prune only in the coldest and hottest months and paint wounds right away to reduce oak wilt risk; never leave fresh cuts open in spring. Protect the root zone from trenching and compaction during construction. Root suckers are normal and can be mowed.
Benefits
Good for