Valley Oak is the largest native oak in California, with massive, spreading canopies that once dominated the Central Valley and coastal valleys. Some individuals are over 500 years old with trunk diameters exceeding 10 feet. Acorn woodpeckers, western scrub jays, deer, and black bears depend heavily on the large, elongated acorns. Valley oak woodland is now a threatened ecosystem.
Best time to see a Valley Oak
The best time to see a Valley Oak is April–September, when about 64% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 15,732 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Valley Oak? What plant is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Valley Oak sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spotted a Valley Oak?
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