Mortellaro's Nursery
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Oak, Sierra
Oak, Canby
Quercus canbyi
Sierra Oak (rarely referred to as Canby Oak) is a semi-evergreen oak native to northeastern Mexico and valued in Texas landscapes for its fast growth and dense canopy. Though not a Texas native, it has adapted well to much of Central and South Texas and is often chosen as an alternative to live oak when a quicker shade tree is desired. Its narrow, glossy green leaves give it a refined appearance compared to broader-leaf oaks.
Sierra Oak performs best in full sun and prefers well-drained soils. It tolerates alkaline soils common throughout Central Texas and establishes relatively quickly when properly watered during its first few years. Once established, it demonstrates good drought tolerance, though it benefits from occasional deep watering during extended dry periods. Poor drainage should be avoided, as overly wet soils can reduce vigor.
In the landscape, Sierra Oak is used primarily as a fast-growing shade tree for residential yards, commercial properties, and street plantings. Mature size typically ranges from 40 to 50 feet tall and 25 to 30 feet wide, forming a dense, rounded canopy. Spacing trees 25 to 30 feet apart allows adequate room for canopy spread and airflow. It is generally considered deer tolerant once established, though young trees may require protection from browsing.
Sierra Oak is non-toxic to pets and people, though acorns can cause mild digestive upset if consumed in large quantities. In colder parts of Central Texas, it may drop some or most of its leaves during winter, especially after hard freezes, but typically leafs back out quickly in spring. Its rapid growth and full canopy make it a popular choice where quicker shade is desired.
Oak Wilt Awareness:
Oak wilt is a serious concern in Central Texas. All oaks can be affected, though susceptibility varies by species. To reduce risk, avoid planting new oaks close to existing mature oaks where root systems may eventually connect. Never prune oaks during high-risk periods (generally February through June), as fresh cuts attract sap beetles that spread the disease. Many Texas municipalities enforce seasonal oak pruning restrictions, and in some areas pruning oaks during certain months is prohibited by ordinance. Always seal any necessary pruning cuts immediately with paint to help prevent infection.
Oak Wilt Groups :
Red Oak Group - Most susceptible; often fatal quickly
Live Oaks - Highly susceptible; spreads aggressively through root grafts
White Oak Group - More resistant; typically least severe
Sierra Oak (Quercus canbyi) belongs to the Red Oak group
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Shade tree |
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Fast growing |
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Semi-Evergreen |
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Height:45-50 Feet |
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Spread:25-30 Feet |
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Spacing:25-30 ft |
USDA Hardiness Zone 7a
Available Sizes:
| Item | Description | |
| OAK-SIE-15 | #015 OAK, SIERRA |
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| OAK-SIE-30 | #030 OAK, SIERRA |
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Characteristics & Attributes
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Deer Tolerance
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Exposure
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Habit
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Soil pH Preference
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Water Needs
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Tolerates Poor Drainage
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