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What Is the State Tree of Georgia?

Erik J.J. Goserud
Erik J.J. Goserud

The state tree of Georgia is the live oak. This tree, often called the evergreen oak, encompasses a number of oak tree variations characteristically exhibiting green foliage. The reason the tree is termed a live oak is because of its tendency to stay alive and green throughout the winter.

This type of oak tree and similarly associated variations are prevalent in North America and are densely populated along the east coast. They may also be found in parts of Asia and Europe. This tree has a number of uses and distinct characteristics, making it important to people beyond the Georgian state boundaries.

Acorns, the fruit of a live oak.
Acorns, the fruit of a live oak.

Among the uses exceeding those typical of lumber is American butt shipbuilding. The reason why this state tree of Georgia is so useful in this craft is the low-hanging branches and relatively short height. It is also a very dense and energy-absorbing type of wood. Though very useful for large-scale projects due to these properties, in terms of furniture use, it doesn't measure up because it tends to change shape and size in accordance with the current moisture level and temperature.

People break down the characteristics of most tress into categories, such as the type of leaf, flower, and fruit. Additionally, aspects of a tree such as the twig, bark, and form may help differentiate one species of tree from another. The state tree of Georgia has its own specific features.

The twig of the live oak is described as slender and gray, and it possesses an abundance of budding flowers. These blossoming beauties of the state tree of Georgia appear in March through May. The bark of the evergreen oak is red and scaly, tending to turn to a darker blackish hue as the season progresses.

The fruit of the live oak are acorns, and they are usually less than one inch (2.5 cm) in size. They come forth in clusters of three to five, generally speaking; of course, exceptions may exist. The form, also referred to as shape or size of the tree, tends to be medium to large in size. The branches hang low and can exhibit a large circumference — circumferences in excess of 150 feet (46 meters) have been reported among these trees. The beautiful live oaks characteristic of Georgia certainly represent this southern state in a unique way.

Discussion Comments

Raynbow

@ocelot60- If you have the opportunity when you are in Georgia, visit the area around the Chattahoochee River. The beautiful landscape in this part of Georgia has many gorgeous trees, including live oaks.

Spotiche5

@ocelot60- I go to the state of Georgia several times a year because I have relatives there. I can tell you that lives oaks are very common throughout the state, so you shouldn't have a hard time finding them. City parks, state parks, and country roads all over the state are great places to see live oak trees.

Ocelot60

I love the way that live oaks look in the autumn months. Since they don't usually lose all of their leaves, they look beautiful throughout the season and take on a pretty glow. I wonder what are some of the best areas of Georgia to see these beautiful trees. I'm planning a visit to the state next year, and I love exploring all types of nature attractions.

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    • Acorns, the fruit of a live oak.
      By: Denis Junker
      Acorns, the fruit of a live oak.