Family: Fagaceae
Author: Liebm.
Bibliography: Overs. Kongel. Danske Vidensk. Selsk. Forh. Medlemmers Arbeider 1854: 172 (1854)
Year: 1854
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Quercus
Vegetable: False
Observations: California, Mexico (Baja California)
Description
Scrub oak, scientifically known as Quercus berberidifolia, is a distinctive member of the Fagaceae family. This resilient plant is indigenous to regions of California and Baja California in Mexico. The species was formally documented in 1854 by Liebm., appearing in the comprehensive publication “Overs. Kongel. Danske Vidensk. Selsk. Forh. Medlemmers Arbeider.”
Found primarily in chaparral habitats, scrub oak is optimally adapted to survive in arid and semi-arid environments. The plant typically takes the form of a dense, shrubby tree, characteristic of many Mediterranean-climate woodlands. This adaptability allows scrub oak to thrive where larger trees might struggle, making it an essential component of its native ecosystem.
Scrub oak is a cornerstone species in California chaparral, providing critical cover and food for a variety of wildlife. Its acorns are a valued food source for numerous bird and mammal species, while its dense foliage offers shelter and nesting sites. Beyond its ecological contributions, scrub oak also plays a significant role in erosion control and soil stabilization, thanks to its hardy root system.
In terms of appearance, scrub oak boasts small, leathery leaves that are typically a deep green, with a spiny-toothed edge which is thought to be an adaptation to reduce water loss and deter herbivores. During the cooler months, the leaves might turn a muted bronze, giving the landscape a unique seasonal hue.
Research into Quercus berberidifolia has highlighted its importance not only ecologically but also in cultural contexts. Indigenous peoples of California utilized various parts of the plant, especially the acorns, which were a staple in their diet after proper preparation to remove tannins.
In summary, scrub oak represents a vital yet often understated component of its native habitats. Through its adaptability and resilience, Quercus berberidifolia ensures the sustainability and health of the chaparral ecosystems it dominates, making it an invaluable species within its range.
Common Names
Eng: scrub oak, california scrub oak
En: Scrub oak, California scrub oak; coastal sage scrub oak, California Scrub Oak
Nl: Californische struikeik
Synonyms
- Quercus dumosa f. berberidifolia ((Liebm.) Trel.)
- Quercus dumosa var. munita (Greene)
- Quercus agrifolia var. berberidifolia ((Liebm.) Wenz.)
Distribution
- California (native)
- Mexico Northwest (native)
Additional Images
Bark
Taken Sep 9, 2022 by Kai Best (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 24, 2014 by EOL − Daniel (cc-by-nc)
Leaf
Taken Jul 19, 2020 by Johnny Johnny Burgess (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 24, 2020 by Philippe RIVIERRE (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 18, 2020 by Reya Andrews (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 8, 2015 by EOL − Jesse Rorabaugh (cc-by)
Taken Nov 8, 2015 by EOL − Jesse Rorabaugh (cc-by)
Flower
Taken Apr 11, 2015 by Marsen Matressa (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Nov 8, 2015 by EOL − Jesse Rorabaugh (cc-by)
Taken Jul 22, 2015 by EOL − James Bailey (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jul 17, 2015 by EOL − James Bailey (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jul 30, 2015 by EOL − James Bailey (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jan 26, 2015 by EOL − naturalist eve (cc-by-nc)
Habit
Taken Feb 18, 2013 by EOL − Eric Andersen (cc-by-nc)
Taken Feb 18, 2013 by EOL − Beatriz Arostegui (cc-by-nc)
Taken Dec 10, 2014 by EOL − bethadamyk (cc-by-nc)
Taken May 4, 2014 by EOL − Cathy Lin (cc-by-nc)
Taken Feb 10, 2014 by EOL − Maricela Guardado (cc-by-nc)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2878674)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:295854-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Quercus berberidifolia Liebm.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Tree, Shrub