Quercus × alvordiana facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Quercus × alvordiana |
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Q. × alvordiana
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| Quercus × alvordiana |
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Quercus dumosa var. alvordiana |
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The Alvord oak, known scientifically as Quercus × alvordiana, is a special kind of oak tree. It's not a regular oak species but a hybrid, meaning it's a mix of two different kinds of oaks. Think of it like a mix of two dog breeds! Scientists believe it's a cross between the Blue Oak (Quercus douglasii) and either the Turbinella Oak (Quercus turbinella) or the Tucker's Oak (Quercus john-tuckeri).
Where the Alvord Oak Grows
This unique hybrid oak is found only in California, USA. When a plant or animal is found only in one specific area, we say it is endemic to that place. The Alvord oak grows in the southern parts of the California Coast Ranges and the western Transverse Ranges. It's actually the most common hybrid that comes from the Blue Oak.
What the Alvord Oak Looks Like
The Alvord oak can grow as a shrub or a small tree. It usually stays under 3 metres (9.8 ft) (about 10 feet) tall. This plant can be either evergreen, meaning it keeps its leaves all year, or deciduous, meaning its leaves fall off in the autumn.
Leaves
The leaves of the Alvord oak are quite small, growing up to 5 centimeters (about 2 inches) long. On top, they have a dull blue to gray-green color. The undersides of the leaves are a paler green. The edges of the leaf blades often have small teeth, and some leaves might even have pointed tips.
Acorns
The acorn of the Alvord oak has a narrow shape. It can grow up to 4 centimeters (about 1.5 inches) long. The cup that holds the acorn is usually up to 1.6 centimeters (about 0.6 inches) wide.
