Escarpment live oak is a smaller version of the coastal live oak (Q. virginiana) growing slowly to 20 to 40 feet high and about as wide with picturesquely gnarled branches and evergreen leaves. Escarpment live oak is native to southern Oklahoma through central and western Texas to northern Mexico, which means it is also more drought and cold tolerant than coastal live oak. Because of its slower growth it is a perfect long-lived shade tree for smaller, urban landscapes. Branches provide excellent nesting sites for birds and small mammals. Acorns are elongated and eaten by wildlife. It is also the larval host of the Hairstreak and Horace’s Duskywing butterflies.

Exposure: Full sun or light shade
Soil: Alkaline to slightly acid, well-drained soils
Hardiness: USDA Zone 6-10