Oak trees come out of acorns, 
no matter how unlikely that seems. 
An acorn is just a tree's way back into the ground. 
For another try. Another trip through. 
One life for another.
~ Shirley Ann Grau 

Canyon Live Oaks (Quercus agrifolia Nee) are not called "Live" for nothin'. Here it is, February, and these hardwood trees are as green as can be.

It is a baffling tree when you look at the foliage up close.  The leaves are "chop suey" -- all mixed up.  Some are smooth and rounded, while others look like holly!  Take a look here for photos that show how variegated they are.

Take a closer look at the leaves, and you will understand how these leaves make it through the winter.  The leaves have a thick, waxy cuticle (outer covering) that helps them retain their moisture.  Nature's wax job.

This area of the trail is particularly beautiful, as the live oaks provide a shimmering green canopy.  And because of its year-round canopy, not much grows under it.

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