The massive valley oaks and coast live oaks in my neighborhood are totally rad! The largest specimens have been here for centuries. Although many have succumbed to decay as a result of urban development and irrigation, some of the most impressive are remarkably healthy and have been tolerating irrigation since the late 1950’s. Younger trees have grown after the homes were constructed and are doing quite well. We love our oaks.

However, I very rarely recommend new specimens of either of these two species for other landscapes. They simply are not appropriate unless their unpredictable moods and discriminating tastes are understood and accommodated by those wanting to adopt. Too often, I see oaks that were used as the token drought tolerant trees within generously irrigated landscapes where they may thrive for many years, but will eventually likely succumb to decay before attaining their first century.

Of course, this limited life expectancy still exceeds what is expected of most other species, but oaks should be very long-term investments. They just don’t do much during their first century. Those who prefer oaks, even while young, should certainly plant them where practical. Nevertheless, selection of appropriate species of tree is more important than selection of any other plant material.

Trees are the most substantial and essentially permanent features of a landscape. Annuals that are found to be inappropriate for a site after installation are easily replaced during the next season, but if a tree must be replaced, the process is expensive and involved and the replacement starts over as a juvenile specimen. I certainly do not recommend finding the ‘perfect tree’, but instead selecting a favorite tree and then determining if it is appropriate for the intended use. If so and if any ‘objectionable personality traits’ are acceptable, then go for it. If not find another favorite tree and start the process over.

There really is no such thing as a perfect tree. Australian willow, water gum (Tristania laurina), purple leaf plum and crepe myrtle are perhaps among the ‘best’ because they are so manageable, but they are just too puny where large trees are preferable. I was very impressed by the many crepe myrtles recently installed at the curbs of Spencer Avenue in Willow Glen that just happen to be perfect for the site. However, I would rather plant a silver maple in front of my home, even thought I know that this species is not the most appropriate and will eventually become somewhat troublesome.