Photographed 8/22/2012, Victoria, British Columbia, copyright © 2012, Ian Barclay.

Family: Fagaceae Native to: Western USA (and locally in southwest BC) in summer-dry areas Dimensions: tree to 40 - 80' tall, frequently with equal spread, but habit/shape varies Cold resistance: hardy to at least -30°F Drought resistance: good, except in very hot desert Key Features: native tree, easy to grow, often assumes contorted habit with age, drought resistant, long-lived Uses: shade tree, street tree, native plantings, tolerates urban conditions/reflected heat, adaptable. Description: This is one of Washington's most special native trees, and the only oak species native to Washington and British Columbia. Although its distribution is now reduced mostly to drier areas west of the Cascades, it is thought to have been more widespread in the past when our climate was warmer and drier. It's deciduous, with dark green leaves, and has a lot of character: its habit is certainly very rugged and may even be described as "creepy" if you're easily spooked! In gardens it is not difficult to grow, but it is rather slow, and needs good drainage and sun. Although completely drought tolerant once established, plenty of summer water will dramatically improve its growth rate. After a great many years it may reach 60' with greater spread.

Photographed 10/7/2011, Yakima County, Washington, copyright © 2011, Ian Barclay.

Photographed 8/22/2012, Victoria, British Columbia, copyright © 2012, Ian Barclay.

This page is provided by The Desert Northwest for informational purposes, and does not guarantee availability. Please refer to our current list.

Back to local retail list
Back to mail-order list
HOME

All text, images and art copyright © 2000 - 2025, Ian Barclay.