treeN. America Native

Laurel Oak

Quercus laurifolia

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

720 inches

Width

480 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate to wet

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Short-lived for an oak (50-70 years)

Native To

Southeastern U.S.

Toxicity

Acorns toxic to horses and cattle

The Story

Plant Bio

A large, fast-growing, semi-evergreen to deciduous oak tree with a dense, rounded crown. It is native to the coastal plains of the southeastern United States. Laurel Oak is known for its rapid growth rate and its semi-evergreen nature in the southern parts of its range, holding its leaves through much of the winter. It is a relatively short-lived oak, often lasting 50-70 years.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

A handsome, large-statured tree with a dense, rounded canopy that provides deep shade. Its glossy, narrow leaves give it a finer texture than many other oaks.

Its rapid growth makes it a quick solution for shade in large landscapes. The wood has been used for pulp and fuel.

A very high-value wildlife tree. The acorns are a critical food source for deer, squirrels, turkeys, and ducks. It also serves as a host plant for numerous butterfly and moth species.

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a site with full sun and moist, acidic soil.
Ensure there is ample space for its large mature size.
Dig a hole two to three times wider than the root ball.
Plant the tree so the root flare is visible at the soil line.
Backfill with native soil and water deeply.
Mulch around the base to conserve moisture.

Pro Tip

Plant in areas with moist, acidic soil for best performance. Avoid planting near structures due to its shorter lifespan and potential for limb drop.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly for the first few years to establish a deep root system.
Prune young trees to develop good structure.
Allow plenty of room for it to grow to its mature size.

Don't

Do not plant in dry, alkaline soils.
Avoid planting too close to homes or driveways due to its eventual size and potential for falling limbs.
Do not heavily amend the planting hole; use native soil.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Fast-growing shade tree for large propertiesNaturalistic planting in moist areasWildlife habitat restoration tree

Companion Plants

Magnolia grandiflora Ilex opaca Nyssa sylvatica Sabal palmetto

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Laurel Oak questions

What zones can Laurel Oak grow in?

Laurel Oak is hardy in USDA Zones 6–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Laurel Oak deer resistant?

Yes — Laurel Oak is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Laurel Oak bloom?

Laurel Oak typically blooms in early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Laurel Oak need full sun?

Laurel Oak does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Laurel Oak drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Laurel Oak handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.