Gurney oak
quercus durata
Also known as: ["Gurney's oak"]
Overview
A small, evergreen oak species native to California, known for its hardy nature and adaptation to serpentine soils.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fagales |
| Family: | Fagaceae |
| Genus: | Quercus |
| Botanical Name: | Quercus durata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, slopes, or coastal areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil with organic matter like peat or compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates coastal fog and partial shade in hotter inland areas.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; place in dappled shade during peak summer heat.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Monitor leaf color for sunburn; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity; use shade cloth if needed.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks during dry periods, less in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry partially between waterings, and avoid frequent shallow watering.
Soil
well-drained, rocky or sandy soil
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; amend with organic matter; test pH annually.
Temperature
Adaptable to cool coastal climates (50–70°F/10–21°C). Tolerates mild frosts but prefers moderate temperatures.
Protect from frost; water deeply in heat; adjust care based on microclimate.
Fertilizing
rarely required, annually in spring if needed
Fertilize only in spring; avoid over-fertilizing; use organic options like compost tea.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed. Stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F/18–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, misting bottle, plastic bag or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning and heading back to maintain natural form.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant and remove dead or weak growth to improve structure and health.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged branches; make clean cuts; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root bound status; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; ensure good drainage.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture with a finger; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the root zone, ensuring even saturation to a depth of 6–8 inches. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–14 days during active growth, reducing frequency to once monthly in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use acidic amendments if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in prolonged cold or frost.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf discoloration or drop in temperatures below 32°F (0°C).
Solution: Provide frost protection with burlap or mulch; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced growth in prolonged heat above 85°F (29°C).
Solution: Increase watering frequency; provide shade during peak heat; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check soil fertility; apply sparingly; water after fertilizing; monitor for signs of burn.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if needed, avoiding late-season feeding.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they consume parts of Quercus durata. The tannins present can lead to digestive upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe tannins in Quercus durata can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs if ingested. The effects are generally not severe but can lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicQuercus durata, commonly known as the leather oak, contains tannins which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is primarily localized to the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Quercus durata suitable for small gardens?
A: Yes, due to its small size and hardy nature, it is suitable for smaller garden spaces.
Q: Does Quercus durata require much water?
A: No, it is highly drought-tolerant and prefers minimal watering once established.
Q: Are the acorns of Quercus durata edible?
A: The acorns are mildly toxic and should not be consumed by humans or pets.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fagaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks during dry p |
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