Quercus fusiformis, Escarpment Live Oak

Once thought to be an ecotype of Coastal Live Oak (Q. virginiana), this distinct Live Oak species is native to the Edwards Plateau (West Austin). It has a twisted, gnarled appearance, and will often grow into a colony with many trunks called a "motte" or "thicket." 

An extremely drought-tolerant and resilient species of white oak, important for many types of wildlife for shelter and food.