Evergreen medium to large sized tree with a broad dome habit. Overall size 30 to 50 ft plus with an equal or greater spread. Slow to moderate rate of growth. Single or multiple trunk. Leaves are simple, oval to ovate in shape and 1 to 3 inches in length, concave, spiney.
Leaves are medium to dark green and leathery.
Flowers are inconspicuous but messy in spring. Bullet shaped acorns, important to wildlife and staple for indigenous peoples. Good specimen trees in large landscapes but not tolerant of landscape irrigation. Can be sheared to a hedge. Needs well drained soils and no summer water.