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California Native Plant

Quercus dumosa

Coastal Scrub Oak

Plant photo of: Quercus dumosa
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Information by: Plant Nerd and SelecTree        Photographer:

 

Description

Coastal Scrub Oak (Quercus dumosa) is an excellent choice for California-friendly gardens. It is a small, California native tree that can mature up to 15' tall and 8’ wide. For small gardens, this is an excellent choice as it has the beautiful foliage of the larger oaks, but its size makes it appropriate for gardens of all sizes. It can be pruned to expose the trunk and take on the shape of a small tree. This plant is unparticular about its soil, but it is very low-water-use and prefers to receive most of its irrigation in the fall, winter, and spring. Summer water can lead to root rot, so avoid watering during the hottest time of the year. This plant will stay small enough that a licensed arborist will not be required to keep it looking and performing at its best. Plant this with other California natives or drought-tolerant plant material. This tree should be planted at least five feet away from any hardscape areas and 10 feet from structures such as houses and buildings. Shrubs and perennials should be planted about two feet away from this tree. It should be irrigated for about 45 minutes once a week when using most in-line drip irrigation systems.

 

Plant Type

Tree, Shrub

Height Range

12-25'

Flower Color

n/a

Flower Season

n/a

Leaf Color

Green

Bark Color

Grey

Fruit Color

Brown

Fruit Season

Winter, Fall

Sun

Full

Water

Very Low

Growth Rate

Slow

Soil Type

Sandy

Soil Condition

Average, Poor, Well-drained, Dry

Soil pH

Neutral, Basic

Adverse Factors

Allergenic, Messy, Poisonous

Design Styles

Mediterranean, Ranch, Seascape, Woodland

Accenting Features

Multi-trunk Tree, Unusual Shape

Seasonal Interest

Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall

Location Uses

Background, Lawn, Patio, Park, Walls / Fences

Special Uses

Erosion Control, Hedge, Screen, Shade Tree, Naturalizing

Attracts Wildlife

Birds, Butterflies

Water Saving Tip:

Water between sunset and sunrise when temperatures and wind are the lowest.