On sites with better moisture, the tree can grow up to 30’ tall or more, while on dry sites, or those heavily browsed by deer, it will often be a sprawling, thicket-forming shrub. In the landscape, it is usually grown as a multi-trunk tree similar to a redbud.

Gambel oak is extremely drought tolerant and makes a very good choice for planting in the more arid western Great Plains. The oak can vary significantly in size and form from depending on its location.

They are very important to wildlife, providing both food and shelter to an incredible variety of birds, mammals, insects and other creatures.

Though it can survive in the eastern plains, its leaves are often diseased and distorted with fungal diseases.

Even in the difficult climate of Nebraska, seven species are considered native while at least 30 other species and hybrids have proven to be adaptable here.