scrub oak

noun

1. any of several oaks, as Quercus ilicifolia and Q. prinoides, characterized by a scrubby manner of growth, usually found in dry, rocky soil.

Word History and Origins

Origin of scrub oak¹

An Americanism dating back to 1760–70

Example Sentences

Deer have browsed seedlings of manzanita and island scrub oak — a Channel Islands endemic — into oblivion in some places, according to conservancy scientists.

From Los Angeles Times

TreePeople is offering five varieties of native trees saplings for “adoption” — only one per household — including coast live oak, scrub oak, valley oak, toyon and southern black walnut.

From Los Angeles Times

Because of it, thick scrub oak forests grew where the Santa Monica Freeway runs.

From Los Angeles Times

“You can just walk in this little wonderland under the canopy of the scrub oak and poke your head out and suddenly see the Gulf.”

From Washington Times

Nate Goldberg, a lead guide with the outfitter said visitors see “a lot of underbrush, red and yellow aspen leaves, scrub oak, berries and willows which turn a bright yellow.”

From New York Times