Texas live oak (Quercus fusiformis, Fl. S.E. U.S.: 353 (1903))

Family: Fagaceae

Author: Small

Bibliography: Fl. S.E. U.S.: 353 (1903)

Year: 1903

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Quercus

Vegetable: False

Observations: SW. Oklahoma to NE. Mexico

Description

The Texas live oak, known scientifically as Quercus fusiformis, is a remarkable species within the Fagaceae family. This resilient and enduring tree has carved out a crucial presence within its natural range, extending from southwestern Oklahoma to northeastern Mexico.

Described in 1903 by the botanist Small, with formal recognition in “Flora of the Southeastern United States,” the Texas live oak is a symbol of strength and durability. In its native habitat, it can be observed dominating the landscape, often providing a picturesque canopy with its widespread branches and sturdy trunk.

What particularly sets Quercus fusiformis apart is its ability to thrive in challenging environments. This species is well-adapted to the varied and often strenuous conditions of its range, showcasing a remarkable tolerance to drought and poor soil conditions, typical of the Southwestern climates. The tree’s leathery, evergreen leaves retain their vibrant green throughout the year, offering perpetual shade and aesthetic appeal.

Ecologically, the Texas live oak plays a vital role in its ecosystem. It serves as a crucial source of food and habitat for a diverse array of wildlife. Many species of birds and mammals rely on its acorns as a nutritional staple, while numerous insects and other organisms find shelter in its vast network of branches and roots.

In human contexts, the Texas live oak is equally valued. Its robust wood has been historically used for various purposes, although its greatest contribution may be its enduring beauty in landscapes and parks. Urban planners and landscapers frequently employ the Texas live oak to create green spaces that are both stunning and sustainable, given the tree’s low maintenance and resilience.

In summation, Quercus fusiformis, or the Texas live oak, is a plant of significant ecological, historical, and ornamental value. Its presence from southwestern Oklahoma to northeastern Mexico marks it as a cornerstone of its ecosystems and a beloved tree in the regions it inhabits.

Common Names

Eng: texas live oak, escarpment live oak, live oak, plateau oak
En: Texas live oak, Plateau oak, Escarpment live oak, Live oak
Zh: 德克薩斯活櫟
Ka: Ტეხასის მარადმწვანე მუხა
Zh-tw: 德克薩斯活櫟

Synonyms

• Quercus oleoides var. quaterna (C.H.Mull.)
• Quercus virginiana var. fusiformis ((Small) Sarg.)
• Quercus virginiana subsp. fusiformis ((Small) A.E.Murray)
• Quercus virginiana var. macrophylla (Sarg.)
• Quercus virginiana f. macrophylla ((Sarg.) Trel.)

Distribution

• Mexico Northeast (native)
• Oklahoma (native)
• Texas (native)

Additional Images

Leaf

Taken Oct 27, 2022 by Daniel Patón (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 24, 2021 by James Harvey (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 24, 2021 by Cerina Cerina Bee (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 14, 2021 by Wes Buisman (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 16, 2021 by Adrian Mora Jimenez (cc-by-sa)

Other

Taken Oct 9, 2020 by Eli Small (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 3, 2020 by Kendra RaiderNature (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Feb 5, 2016 by EOL − jimmybunny (cc-by-nc)

Taken Mar 20, 2016 by EOL − Chuck Sexton (cc-by-nc)

Taken Mar 17, 2016 by EOL − coordwiseman (cc-by-nc)

Taken May 23, 2020 by David Taylor (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 17, 2016 by EOL − Trent Brown Jr. (cc-by-nc)

Bark

Taken Feb 26, 2016 by EOL − Chuck Sexton (cc-by-nc)

Taken Dec 12, 2013 by EOL − David Barker (cc-by-nc)

Taken Mar 20, 2016 by EOL − Chuck Sexton (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 11, 2020 by Jessica Chance (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 16, 2020 by Reggie Evans (cc-by-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Fruit

Taken Oct 9, 2020 by Eli Small (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 29, 2022 by RIVER STONE (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 24, 2021 by tonatiuh_1 (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 24, 2022 by Blake W (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 21, 2021 by Jarquin Gabriel (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken Jun 1, 2015 by EOL − Marv Elliott (cc-by-nc)

Taken Mar 8, 2020 by Peter Helfer (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2880509)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:215854-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Quercus fusiformis Small)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Tree, Shrub

Growth