Garry Oak
Quercus garryana · Deciduous, Broadleaf, Hardwood
Plant Family
Fagaceae
Tree Category
Shade Tree, Forest Tree, Native
Variety / Cultivar
Standard Wild Type
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 6 through 9.
About This Tree
A massive, slow-growing tree with a broad, rounded canopy. It features rugged, gnarled branching patterns that become increasingly twisted with age, often creating a very dense and picturesque crown.
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, alternate leaves with 5-7 deep, rounded lobes. Dark leathery green on top, paler underneath. Turning brownish-orange or yellow-brown in the fall.
Bark Characteristics
Light gray to medium gray. In maturity, it is thick and corky, featuring deep furrows and narrow, scaly ridges that provide significant fire resistance.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Western North America (British Columbia through Washington and Oregon to California)
Growing Season
Bud break occurs in mid-to-late spring; flowers bloom in April-May; acorns ripen in late summer-fall; leaves drop in late autumn (dormancy in winter).
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full Sun. Once established, it is highly drought-tolerant. Prefers well-drained soil and does not tolerate competition from heavy shade early in life.
Mature Size
Typically 40–90 feet tall with a spread of 30–60 feet. Known for a very slow growth rate and an exceptionally long lifespan, often exceeding 300-500 years.
Special Characteristics
Extremely drought-resistant; fire-tolerant due to thick bark; produces high-quality hardwood; has significant cultural importance to indigenous peoples (acorn harvest).
Wildlife & Ecology
Critical ecosystem cornerstone; supports over 200 species including the Western Gray Squirrel, Propertius Duskywing butterfly, and numerous birds. Provides acorns for food and complex nesting sites.