Southern Live Oak

Overview

Southern live oak is a long-lived Florida native shade tree with a massive spreading canopy, strong branching character, and mostly evergreen foliage. A mature tree often reaches 40 to 60 feet tall and spreads 60 to 100 feet or more.

Where to Use It

Use live oak as a legacy shade tree on large residential properties, parks, streets, and commercial grounds. It needs generous room above and below ground. Keep it well away from buildings, pools, pavement, septic systems, and utility lines.

Light, Soil, and Water

Plant in full sun. Live oak accepts sandy and clay-influenced soils and tolerates drought after establishment. Provide deep watering during the first two years, especially through Tampa's dry spring periods. Avoid frequent shallow irrigation around the trunk.

Planting and Care

Fall through winter is the best planting period in Central Florida. Set the root flare at or slightly above grade. Structural pruning during the young years builds strong branch spacing and reduces future storm risk. Hire a qualified arborist for mature-tree work.

Important Considerations

This is the wrong tree for a narrow lot or small planting bed. Roots and canopy eventually occupy a large area. UF/IFAS recognizes live oak for longevity and strong hurricane performance in its hurricane landscaping guidance.