Quercus hemisphaerica

A fast-growing Southern oak with semi-evergreen foliage and a commanding upright form.

Quercus hemisphaerica, commonly known as Darlington Oak, is a large, fast-growing native tree ideal for use as a street tree, shade tree, or specimen in warm Southern landscapes. Native from southeastern Virginia through Florida and west to Texas, this Southeastern U.S. oak is prized for its upright habit, dense crown, and nearly evergreen foliage, holding its leaves well into winter in mild climates.

Often compared to the Live Oak (Quercus virginiana), Darlington Oak brings a similar lush presence to the landscape but in a more upright, less spreading form—making it especially suited to urban and residential plantings where space may be more limited. While it may not live quite as long as Live Oak, it grows more rapidly, establishing shade and structure in a shorter time.

Quercus hemisphaerica is frequently confused with Quercus laurifolia (Laurel Oak) due to their shared small, unlobed, glossy green leaves. However, Darlington Oak is more typically found on well-drained, sandy upland soils, unlike the bottomland-inhabiting Laurel Oak. It thrives in full sun, tolerates heat and drought once established, and adapts well to the southeastern coastal plain's sandy soils.

Native Range: Southeastern U.S. – Southeastern Virginia to Florida, west to Texas
Foliage: Semi-evergreen; small, unlobed glossy leaves
Notable Traits: Upright form, fast-growing, Southern native, excellent for street and shade use
Landscape Uses: Street tree, shade tree, large landscape anchor, native restoration plantings