This iconic evergreen tree is native to California the California coast  coastal plains  Valleys and foothills. These trees typically grow to 25'-40' high but old specimens can grow to 100 ft. The wide spreading limbs form a shady  helmet-like canopy  growing to 35" feet or more across  with the oldest specimens being recorded as over 100' wide. The small  leathery  tough leaves have spiny margins and are convex. It is thought that the convex shape allows dew and mist to hold onto the leaves to provide moisture  allowing the tree to survive with very little rainfall. The acorns were a staple of indigenous tribes  while early settlers used the wood for charcoal.  Coast Live Oak will tolerate salt spray better than most other native oaks and are well adapted to the foggy  warmer climate of the coastal regions.