Overview
Gambel Oak, also called Scrub Oak, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to the foothills and lower montane areas of Colorado. It often forms dense thickets from root suckers, providing important habitat and food for wildlife. The acorns are an important food source for deer, elk, bears, and birds. Fall color ranges from golden yellow to reddish-brown.
Identification
- Deeply lobed leaves resembling eastern white oak
- Often forms dense thickets from root suckers
- Golden to reddish-brown fall color
- Produces acorns with scaly caps
- Gray-brown, scaly bark
- Typically shrubby, 10-30 feet tall
Growing Conditions
- Found at 5,000-8,000 feet elevation
- Extremely drought tolerant once established
- Cold hardy (zones 4-8)
- Full sun to partial shade
- Tolerates poor, rocky soils
- Spreads by root suckers
- Slow to moderate growth rate
- Deep-rooted and drought adapted
Common Pests & Diseases
Oak Leaf Blister
Causes raised blisters on leaves, usually not serious
Kermes Scale
Waxy bumps on twigs
Gall Wasps
Create various leaf and twig galls, usually harmless
Anthracnose
Leaf spotting and browning
Armillaria Root Rot
Can occur in poorly drained soils
Care & Maintenance
Low maintenance once established. Spreads by root suckers and may need containment in formal landscapes. Avoid overwatering, especially in summer when oak root fungus is active. Excellent for naturalizing, erosion control, and wildlife habitat. Drought tolerant but looks better with occasional deep watering. Generally pest and disease resistant. Acorns can be messy.
Why Choose Earth-Wise?
Our ISA Certified Arborists have extensive experience caring for gambel oaks throughout Colorado's mountain communities. We understand the unique challenges these trees face and provide expert care including disease diagnosis, pest management, proper pruning, and health consultations. Whether you need help with an established tree or guidance on planting new ones, our team can help.