Science · Specimen Trees
Southern Live Oak
The broad, sprawling shade tree of the American South, prized on historic estates and golf courses.
Quercus virginiana · Evergreen oak
Profile
- Zones
- USDA 8–10
- Mature size
- 40–80 ft tall; 60–100 ft spread
- Lifespan
- Centuries
- Root zone
- Extensive
Water & soil targets
- Moisture (VWC)
- ~15–25%
- Salinity tolerance
- Good (coastal tolerant)
- Drought tolerance
- Good
Tolerates turf irrigation better than western oaks.
Problems to watch
- Oak wilt
- Hypoxylon canker
- Root damage from construction
Stress signs
- Leaf vein browning
- Sudden leaf drop
Where you'll find it
- Golf courses
- Historic estates
- Campuses
More specimen trees
Coast Live OakDate Palm (Medjool)Canary Island Date PalmCoast RedwoodJapanese MapleSouthern Magnolia
All Science profilesGeneral agronomic guidance and typical ranges; actual targets vary by site, soil, climate and season.