Common Name: Live Oak (Encino) Latin Name: Quercus virginiana Tree Size: Large Leaf Type: Evergreen Growth Rate: Rapid Water Needs: Moderate Tolerances: Salty soil or sea-spray, drought, alkaline soils (pH > 7.5) Attributes: Texas native, seeds or fruit eaten by wildlife Features: Glossy, deep green leaves remain all winter; long-lived shade tree. Comments: The Escarpment Live Oak is a closely related native species more suited to Central and West Texas. Problems: Allow plenty of room; can develop surface roots. Oak wilt spreads tree-to-tree by root grafts; Firewise: Yes Quercus virginiana