Interior Live Oak

Interior live oak is a long-lived, evergreen oak native to California and southern Oregon, commonly found in foothill woodlands, chaparral, and mixed evergreen forests. It typically grows as a large shrub or medium-sized tree with leathery, oblong leaves that remain green year-round and can resemble those of holly. The species produces acorns that serve as an important food source for birds, deer, and other wildlife. Adapted to hot, dry summers and variable soils, interior live oak is highly drought tolerant and plays a significant role in stabilizing slopes, providing shade, and supporting biodiversity in Mediterranean-climate ecosystems. It may be a good climate-adapted species for our area.