Oak (Sierra Red)

Quercus canbyi

  • Can grow to be a medium to large size tree
  • Leaves resemble a holly leaf
  • Heat and drought tolerant
  • Ideal for a medium size landscape

The Sierra Red Oak tree is the perfect size for any one that wants an attractive shade tree for smaller yards in Texas. Native to Mexico, where they are found growing in the mountain ranges around Monterrey, they are also known by their botanical name, Quercus canbyi.

When young, they have a pyramidal shape, and as they mature, they develop a broad canopy that provides a good amount of shade. These trees have a naturally neat appearance, with new foliage turning from red to green and back to red again in the fall. If you do not have a large yard but still want a handsome shade tree, Quercus canbyi is the perfect tree for urban landscapes and for any place where space is at a premium!

Common Name: Mexican Red Oak, and Canby’s Red Oak

Interesting Facts: The spread of oak wilt disease in Central Texas can often be linked to the movement of firewood from infected red oaks. These trees produce “fungal mats” under the bark where certain insects feed; it is these insects that can infect new trees where the firewood has been moved. If you live in an area with active oak wilt, or your neighbors have trees with oak wilt, you would be better served by planting alternative oak species, such as Lacey Oak or Monterrey Oak.