Nothing says ‘Old South’ like the Southern live oak. The magnificent Spanish moss-draped tree grows so well in the soil of Hilton Head. It tolerates salt spray, loves the climate, and we have admired so many of them all over the island.
What makes them so memorable? It’s all in the limbs. Their massive limbs can grow horizontal or downward near the ground before turning upright or they can form great arching tunnels over roadways.
They are loved and greatly protected on the island with laws governing pruning, removal or land clearing for construction. One Southern live oak limb we’ve often ducked beneath on a busy sidewalk has a sign warning pedestrians. How cool is that?
They are now popular street trees here in the west because the are cleaner than our native cost live oaks and more tolerant of irrigation in landscaped areas (even though their roots are usually complaisant). The coast live oak drops foliage and flowers all year. The Southern live oak does the same, but tends to drop more leaves in certain seasons, and drops less throughout the year.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Interesting! It is an impressive shade tree that keeps that “live” green canopy year round here, too. Wish it grew in NH…
LikeLiked by 1 person
Very nice pictures! 🙂
LikeLike
Thank you. I made a mistake not bringing my good camera. All I have is my smartphone. ☹️
LikeLiked by 1 person
Still! Looks pretty darn good
LikeLiked by 1 person
The live oaks with the strands of moss just makes you smile. Hope your vacation is a wonderful one. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
So far so good. Temps hit the 70’s today so we thought it would be a great time to look for alligators. We were right and found several basking in the warm sun.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’ve only seen one at the Gardens so far. I love seeing them because it reminds me Mother Nature is in charge. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wow! This place seems like a part of a fairytale, Annie! Excellent pictures. This place seems perfect for a morning stroll! 😉
LikeLiked by 1 person
Daily strolls are a must!
LikeLike