They are monoecious, with both male and female flowers scattered throughout the crown in a manner that inhibits selfing. Flowering begins in May and the pollen is wind dispersed. Several authors have investigated the interval between good seed crops. Since canyon live oaks are very shade tolerant, acorns which drop below the parent tree often sprout and begin growing slowly. Occasionally, acorns from trees growing on steep slopes will roll downhill and become established.
Canyon live oak seedlings do best in moist soil covered with leaf letter under an overstory canopy.
Fire is a natural disturbance that affects oak forests. Sprouts can develop immediately following an injury, from any sized tree or shrub. Canyon live oaks are beneficial in many ways. They improve soil quality by providing litter accumulation, and their roots stabilize the soil on steep slopes. References Barrett, R. 1979.