ExplorePlants

valley oak

Quercus lobata

The valley oak is a big, beautiful tree that can grow very tall and wide. Its leaves are shaped like big fingers and turn golden in the fall. This tree provides homes for many animals and shade for people!

Habitat: Grasslands

Appearance

The valley oak is a large, deciduous tree known for its massive trunk and broad, spreading crown. It has deeply lobed, dark green leaves and thick, deeply furrowed gray-brown bark, making it distinct from many narrower oaks.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassMagnoliopsidaOrderFagalesFamilyFagaceaeGenusQuercus
valley oak
deciduous trait badgeshade_tolerant trait badgebroadleaf_tree trait badgenut_bearing trait badge
valley oak

Category

Plants

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

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Interesting facts

Fuzzy young leaves help keep the tree cool during hot California summers!

Its taproot can reach deeper than a six-story building for water!

Its wide branches can shade an area larger than two tennis courts!

Valley oak acorns were a vital food for many Native American tribes!

Special abilities

Ability

Deep Water Hunter

Valley oak can survive long dry summers because its deep taproot reaches far down for water.

Ability

Fire Shield Bark

Valley oak has thick, furrowed bark that protects its vital tissues, helping it survive some wildfires.

Ability

Acorn Powerhouse

Valley oak can produce abundant acorns, providing a vital food source and aiding in its widespread reproduction.

Ability

Long Life Champion

Valley oak has a lifespan of hundreds of years, allowing it to adapt to long-term environmental changes.

Measurements & details

Height
1500-3000 cm
Spread
1000-3500 cm
Flower Size
1-5 cm
Bloom Season
Spring
Edible
Yes
Toxicity
Mild
Lifecycle
Perennial
Pollination Method
Wind

Ecological connections

Traits

Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Stay away from the branches and don't climb the tree without an adult.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall is valley oak?

1500-3000 cm

How wide does valley oak spread?

1000-3500 cm

How big are the flowers on valley oak?

1-5 cm

When does valley oak bloom?

Spring

Is valley oak edible?

Yes

Is valley oak toxic?

Mild

What is valley oak's lifecycle?

Perennial

How is valley oak pollinated?

Wind

Snap Map

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Where to spot

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