How Long Does the Oak Tree Live?

Long-Lived Oak Tree Varieties: Long-lived oak trees usually live between 150 to 1000 years. This type of oak tree can generally be found in the forests. In Louisiana, there is a certain type of oak tree called Quercus Virginiana or Southern Living Oak, which is believed to live up to 1500 years of age. Red Oak and White Oak, which are very common, are also considered long-lived varieties.

Long-lived oak trees mature when they begin to bloom and bear fruits at around 40-50 years. It will continue to be productive over the next hundreds of years, peaking at around 80-120 years, and will rest after 300 years. It will repeat its cycle after resting for another 300 years. A matured oak can grow up to 45 meters tall with wide-spreading branches. The onset of old age is when the matured oak reaches 700 years old, it will grow slowly and will produce fewer acorns. The oak is nearing the end of its life at 1000 years old, wherein some parts of it will start to die.

Short-lived Oak Tree Varieties: The short-lived oak tree includes the most common water oak and the laurel oak which are both native to the Southeast. They are estimated to live about 50 to 60 years which is considered a very short lifespan. Short-lived oak is also widespread and can be found in various places on the planet.