Laurel Oak (Quercus laurifolia)

The laurel oak is a medium sized rounded tree. Though here in Pennsylvania it is a deciduous tree, in warm coastal climates the tree's leaves are retained for most of the year. These leaves are leathery, glossy, dark green with pale green undersides, and have smooth margins. This tree attracts birds and mammals.

Family: Fagaceae (Beech)

Characteristics: The 2-inch to 4-inch-long leaves are narrow, smooth-margined, leathery, and glossy dark green, with pale green undersides. This tree produces insignificant yellow-green flowers that appear as catkins. Acorns are 1 inch long and a quarter of the way covered by a cap. Bark is gray and scaly. This tree has a broad and rounded shape. It grows 40-60 feet high and wide.

Foliage: Deciduous (leaves lost seasonally), Semi-Evergreen (leaves present most of winter) in warm coastal climates

Geographic Origin: Southeastern United States (non-native)

Cultivation Notes: Requires medium maintenance. Does best in full sun. Prefers acidic, medium to wet, and well-drained soils, though can adapt to a wide range of soil types and conditions, including wet clay soils.

Number on Campus: 7

Sources: Dirr, Morton Arboretum, Missouri Botanical Garden