| Gambel oak (Quercus gambelii) is a deciduous small tree or large shrub widespread in the foothills and lower mountain elevations of the central southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico. It typically grows at altitudes of 1,000–3,000 meters above sea level, where precipitation averages between 30–60 centimeters (12 to 24 inches) per year. It is often called scrub oak, oak brush or white oak.
Gambel oak varies significantly in size from one location to another. The average mature height is from 3 to 9 meters (10–30 ft), but occasionally reaches heights of 18 meters (60 ft) in some locations. Dwarf stands of plants under one meter (39 in) tall are common in marginal areas where heavy browsing occurs. The plant reproduces from acorns, but spreads most rapidly from root sprouts that grow from vast underground structures called lignotubers. These reproductive characteristics often result in dense groves or thickets of the trees that often cover entire mountainsides. |
