Plant of the Week
December 30, 2006

Lacey oak (Quercus glaucoides) is a gorgeous, small to intermediate size, deciduous tree belonging to the beech family. This family of plants is scientifically referred to as the Fagaceae. Characteristics include plants with alternate leaves and pinnate venation, flowers in the form of catkins, and fruit in the form of nuts. The best-known group of this family is the oaks, genus Quercus, the fruit of which is called an acorn.

The Lacey oak has a slight identity problem often being known alternately as Quercus laceyi or Quercus glaucoides. Most individuals simply call it Lacey oak, but other frequent names, which have been worn over time, include Blue oak, Mountain oak, Smoky oak, Rock oak, and Encino robie. Most of these frequent names refer to the tough conditions in central and south Texas where this species resides or are related to its handsome blue-green foliage.

Hardiness: Zone 7
Exposure: Full sun
Size: Height 20-25 feet tall, 15-20 feet wide
Care: Best adapted to western two-thirds of state. Don’t water too frequently, once established.

For Further Information:
Visit this link under Texas Superstars at: http://texassuperstar.com/plants.html

Remember, Learn and Have Fun!

David Rodriguez is the County Extension Agent-Horticulture for Bexar County. He represents Texas Cooperative Extension with the Texas A&M University System. For any landscape or gardening information, call the Bexar County Master Gardeners Hotline@ at (210) 467-6575, email questions to mg-bexar@tamu.edu, or visit our County Extension website at http:bexar-tx.tamu.edu/

Special Note: Listen “Live” with David Rodriguez every Saturday morning between
8:00-11:00 a.m. on WOAI 1200 AM, Gardening Show. Feel free to call in at 737-1200 or 1-800-383-9624.