Channel Island Scrub Oak
Quercus pacifica
Taxonomy
- Division:
- Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
- Family:
- Fagaceae
- Genus:
- Quercus
- Species:
- Quercus pacifica
Growth Characteristics
- Life Cycle:
- Perennial
- Growth Habit:
- Shrub , Tree
- Height:
- 6-8 ft
- Light Requirements:
- Full Sun
- Drought Tolerance:
- High
- Bloom Months:
- mar, apr
- Bloom Colors:
- Green, Brown
Native Range
United States: California
Keystone Species Ranking
- Caterpillar Keystone:
- ★☆☆☆☆ Based on number of butterfly and moth species using this genus as host plant (Source: National Wildlife Federation)
Soil Requirements
- Soil Type:
- well-drained, sandy loam or clay
- pH:
- 5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Drainage:
- excellent drainage required
- Moisture:
- dry to moderate
- Notes:
- native to Channel Islands, prefers coastal conditions
Germination Information
Pre-treatment: Moist sinkers are placed in ziplock bags and moist medium, then put into cold, moist stratification at 40 F for 60 to 90 days. Acorns are hydrated in water for 48 hours just prior to sowing.
Establishment: Acorns are hand collected when they are fully matured, with August and September being the optimum for collection. Mature acorns are tannish-brown and easily separate from the caps. The Channel Island scrub oak is endemic to the Channel islands and inhabits chaparral and oak woodlands. The collection period varies, with one protocol suggesting late May to June and the other suggesting late August to November.
Source: npn.rngr.net