Live oaks are designated as the official tree of the City of Virginia Beach, and with good reason. Native to the area, live oaks were here long before European settlers. The tree is one of the most distinctive and recognizable plants in the city and immediately brings to mind our coastal areas and maritime ecosystem. They resist salt spray and storm surges, having survived Hurricane Katrina in areas where everything else was reduced to rubble. They control flooding and storm water runoff, and shelter and nourish local wildlife. They are amazingly drought-tolerant and disease-resistant.

Live oaks boast many assets for homeowners.

    Increase property value and quality of life.
    Provide incredible shade, reducing air conditioning costs.
    Are evergreen, their dense foliage provides privacy and beautifies the garden all year round.