Quercus douglasii is
the dominant white oak in much of the Coast Ranges and Sierra Foothills
surrounding the Central Valley of California. The blue leaves make
Quercus douglasii a valuable component of the native garden. Quercus
douglasii typically grows to 30 feet tall and somewhat wider than tall but
can get significantly larger in the right conditions. The natural
shape of the tree is quite pleasing when the trees are deciduous.
The Blue Oak is slow growing. To plan for slow growing trees, I
often plant faster growing plants with the intention of removing them as
the more valuable slow growing tree finally grows into its space.
Quercus douglasii is tolerant of heavy soils. The Blue Oak is quite
drought tolerant and even drought insistent once established.
Quercus douglasii is found below the elevations that heavy snowfall
occurs.
High resolution images
of Quercus douglasii are available
