Diamond Oak

Depending on who you ask, there are two laurel oaks in Florida.  Q. laurifolia (swamp laurel oak) and Q. hemisphaerica (Darlington oak, sand laurel oak).  The taxonomists don't agree, and it appears that the two are distinctively different in north Florida but very much alike in southern and south Florida. Even if they are one species, this would be a ecotype that is more suited to drier settings.

They are separated here because on is a wetland and floodplain plant, the other grows in dry uplands.  Some authors note that regardless of ID, they get planted without much regard for origin or drainage.



Shade tree where fast growth is needed. Tardily deciduous.

Not salt tolerant of inundation by salty or brackish water.



Low/no tolerance of salty wind or direct salt spray

Do not plant overly close to foundations. Also be aware that this is not one of the stronger or longer lived oaks--not wind-resistant as most other oaks. Lives approximately 50 years.

Produces acorns that are used by rodents, including squirrels, and other mammals

Acorns used by woodpeckers, jays, and wild turkeys

Used for cover and nesting by a variety of bird species

Dry flatwoods with fire exclusion, disturbed uplands.

• Larval host for Horace’s Duskywing (Erynnis horatius) and White M Hairstreak (Parrhasius m-album).
• Larval host for several moth species (some of the caterpillars are not appreciated)