Native Oaks

Here in Lodi, we have two species of native oak, the Valley Oak (Quercus lobata) and the Interior Live Oak (Quercus wislizeni). The majestic Valley Oak with its enormous height and breadth has smooth, lobed leaves. It is particularly suited to live in the dry regions of California, and typically survives in brush fires, but it only grows where there is a significant source of groundwater, like here along the river.

In contrast, the more shrub-like Interior Live Oak with its spikey leaves, is the only evergreen oak in the area, and it thrives in California’s drier landscapes, like the San Joaquin Valley. Both species are found only in the California area. An easy way to remember the difference between the two: live oaks are “live” (sharp and prickly), and valley oak’s leaves have peaks and valleys.

While both oaks produce similar looking acorns, the Interior Live Oak acorns are fuzzy on the inside. The indigenous Miwok people considered the acorns of the Valley Oak vastly superior, and only ate the Interior Live Oak’s acorns in leaner years. The Miwok boiled the acorns to remove toxic tannins before making them into soups, cakes, porridges, and breads. The wood was also used oak wood to make tools, shelters, and firewood.

Remember: leave the acorns for the other species of the forest. Don’t take from nature!