Quercus graciliformis

Closely related to and possibly a variant of Q. canbyi, the lovely Chisos oak is found primarily in dry canyons of the Chisos Mountains in western Texas. A small tree, semi-evergreen and slow growing, it can reach 30 ft tall and wide with long, narrow, leathery leaves edged with widely spaced, short, pointed lobes. Arching branches suggest the common name of graceful oak. Best in full to part sun in gritty, well-drained soil. Needs occasional summer water in hottest climates and tolerates regular water with good drainage. Evergreen where frosts are short and mild; deciduous in colder areas, dropping leaves in shades of red and orange. Frost hardy to at least USDA zone 7 and probably zone 6.