A symbol of strength and resilience in the Texan landscape, the Live Oak is a truly magnificent tree. Its sprawling canopy, formed by wide-arching branches, provides a welcome shade in the hot Texas sun. Some Live Oaks boast branches so long and graceful that they touch the ground, creating a living archway. The dense foliage consists of dark green, elliptical leaves with a waxy sheen. These stiff, leathery leaves can reach 5 inches in length and have a lighter, grayish-green underside. Despite shedding their leaves annually in spring, new growth emerges quickly, giving the Live Oak a near-evergreen appearance. Younger Live Oaks showcase smooth, light gray bark. As these titans mature, their bark transforms into a rugged, dark gray or even black, adorned with a network of ridges and furrows. This transformation reflects the Live Oak’s incredible longevity; some specimens are known to stand for centuries. These majestic trees are remarkably drought-tolerant and thrive in clay loam soil, making them perfectly adapted to the Texan climate. Whether known as a Live Oak, Coastal Live Oak, Virginia Live Oak, or Southern Live Oak, this iconic tree is a cherished part of the Texan landscape.