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. They are separated here because one 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. Often grown as a specimen tree, fast growing.

This tree has a thick trunk and both the trunk and branches can twist into interesting shapes. The bark is red to bronze and peels. It's also called the tourist tree, who also may be reddish and peeling. Plant as a specimen tree to show off its bronze-colored peeling bark. Also makes a good shade tree.

Naturally very rare. Please acquire only from reputable sources. Usualliy said to be perennial, but may not get past the first year. Wildflower garden.

Listed as Endangered by the FDACS.  Please acquire only from reputable sources that have any needed permits. This has been known to escape outside of its range when cultivated. Useful as a grouped planting or potentially a small specimen tree or large shrub.

Moist wildflower meadow

Use as a specimen plant or as an understory in a mixed hardwood forest setting. This tree blooms in early spring before the leaves come out.