Engelmann Oak, also called Mesa Oak or Pasadena Oak, is a rare semi-evergreen oak endemic to a small area of southwestern California and northern Baja California. Its entire range covers only about 100,000 acres, and it has been reduced to isolated remnant populations by urban sprawl, especially around San Diego and the Inland Empire. It grows on rocky mesas and foothills in a Mediterranean climate and is considered a species of conservation concern. Its large, sweet acorns were an important food for the Luiseño and Kumeyaay peoples.
Best time to see a Engelmann Oak
The best time to see a Engelmann Oak is October–April, when about 64% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 4,160 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
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Recent Engelmann Oak sightings near you
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