Canyon Live Oak
Quercus chrysolepis
Last reviewed: June 2026
Canyon Live Oak (Quercus chrysolepis) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org, last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
240"–720" H × 240"–600" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
AZ, CA, NM, NV and 1 more states
Pollinators
bees, wasps
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Canyon live oak is a majestic, long-lived evergreen tree with distinctive golden scales on the underside of its leathery leaves. It grows slowly into a broad, rounded form with dense foliage that provides year-round shade. This drought-tolerant oak is well-suited for large landscape spaces where it can reach its full potential.
In an HOA neighborhood
Canyon Live Oak is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: backyard only, mid zone.
- Extremely large mature size may overwhelm front yards
- Acorn drop can create maintenance concerns
- Slow growth means decades to reach mature form
Wildlife value
Host plant for California sister butterfly.
Canyon live oak provides significant habitat value, producing acorns that feed numerous wildlife species including birds, squirrels, and deer. Its spring flowers support native bees and wasps as important early-season pollinators.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Canyon Live Oak fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.