Range includes most of eastern and central north Ameria west to the prairie region and north into southeastern Canada.  The southern range limit is in the Florida panhandle. Wildflower garden, typically a shade garden.

Edible, very hot fruits

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.

Mass planting or specimen plant in moist areas. Best for informal gardens.