COMMON NAME:  Gambel Oak, Scrub Oak

DESCRIPTION:    Gambel Oak has the classic oak leaf and can reach a height of 20'-50' and a width of 20'-30'.  Its acorns average a diameter of 1".

NATIVE RANGE: Gambel Oak is a common tree along the foothills of Utah, Colorado, and other western states.

CULTURE:  Gambel Oak is very slow growing averaging maybe a foot a year in the wild, but it can grow faster when given more water and fertilizer.  It is PH and drought adaptable. 

DISEASE AND INSECT:  Gambel Oak is sometimes susceptible to Anthracnose.  If the infection is not severe, infected parts can be pruned out.  Otherwise the tree will die.  When homeowners try to save native trees at a new home sight, construction damage, which includes damaged roots and compacted soil may not show up until several years after the damage was done.

LANDSCAPE VALUE:  Scrub Oak is often used in the landscape with a grove effect.  Shade tolerant ground covers and perennials are planted under the trees for a beautifying effect.  To achieve a grove of oak trees it is best to leave mature trees and then plant underneath them.  If a person were to plant young trees they may grow old waiting for them to grow.