Live Oak Tree Seeds | Southern Live Oak | (Quercus virginiana)
Live Oak Tree Seeds | Southern Live Oak | (Quercus virginiana)
Majestic, enduring, and deeply southern.
Quercus virginiana, known as the Southern Live Oak, is one of North America’s most iconic trees—symbolizing strength, resilience, and heritage across the American South. With its sprawling canopy, evergreen foliage, and ability to thrive in coastal conditions, the Live Oak has shaded generations beneath its immense, sculptural branches.
Native to the southeastern United States, this legendary oak withstands hurricanes, drought, and salt air, making it a cornerstone of both natural and cultural landscapes. Its massive limbs, draped in Spanish moss, create a timeless and unforgettable silhouette.
Why Grow Southern Live Oak?
- Symbol of southern endurance—long-lived and storm-resistant
- Provides dense year-round shade with glossy, evergreen leaves
- Excellent for coastal plantings, windbreaks, and restoration projects
- Supports hundreds of wildlife species, including songbirds and pollinators
Growing Details
- Botanical Name: Quercus virginiana
- Common Names: Live Oak, Southern Live Oak
- Germination Rate: 94%
- Harvest Year: 2024
- Seed Source: Florida, USA
- Stratification: Not required
- USDA Zones: 7–10
- Soil: Well-drained; tolerates sandy, loamy, or clay soils
- Light: Full sun
- Mature Size: 40–80 ft tall × 60–100 ft wide
- Growth Rate: Moderate (1–2 ft per year)
- Packet Sizes: 5, 10, 25, or 50 seeds
Ecological Importance
- Supports over 400 species of caterpillars, forming the foundation of southeastern food webs.
- Acorns provide vital winter forage for deer, squirrels, turkeys, and wood ducks.
- Dense evergreen canopy offers shelter for songbirds and nesting raptors.
Fun Facts
- Some Live Oaks, like those on plantations and battlefields, are estimated to be over 500 years old.
- The USS Constitution, “Old Ironsides,” was built from Live Oak timber—renowned for its density and strength.
- In southern folklore, Live Oaks are considered symbols of honor and protection—trees that “remember” history.
Evergreen Seed Co. provides high-quality, viable Live Oak seeds sourced from mature, healthy trees across the Gulf Coast. Every order includes detailed germination instructions to help you grow your own piece of American heritage.
FAQ
FAQ
Do you pre-stratify the seeds?
Most of our seeds are not pre-stratified. We ship them unstratified so you can control germination timing based on your local growing season. We sell to all 50 U.S. states and Canadian provinces, and since each region has different planting windows, pre-stratifying would risk seeds germinating in transit or before you're ready to plant.
True stratification requires cold, moist conditions, which can lead to premature sprouting or mold if not timed properly. To avoid this, we store most seeds in dry cold conditions to preserve viability — but this does not initiate stratification.
Do any of your seeds need to stay moist? (Recalcitrant seeds)
Yes — some species we offer are recalcitrant, meaning they must remain moist to stay viable and cannot be dried out. Examples include: Chestnut, Hazelnut, Paw Paw, etc.
These seeds are shipped in moist cold storage and are clearly labeled on the product page when applicable. Please refrigerate immediately upon arrival and follow included care instructions.
Do you ship internationally?
We currently ship to the United States and Canada only. Unfortunately, we cannot ship to other countries without a phytosanitary certificate, which is required by most international customs agencies.
If you're interested in shipping outside North America, please contact us. Note that a phytosanitary certificate typically adds $60–$80 USD per seed type and must be arranged in advance.
Shipping & What's Included
Shipping & What's Included
Shipping & Packaging
Hand-packed in resealable zipper kraft paper seed bags
Stratification and planting instructions included with every order
1 free bonus seed pack included with every order
Ships within 3–5 business days via USPS
Return Policy
Return Policy
Due to the nature of our products, we do not accept returns on seeds.
However, if your order arrives damaged or incorrect, please contact us within 7 days and we’ll make it right.
