The leaves on the gambel oak are some of the last to go. They stubbornly hang on through rain and freezing weather, even after turning. They are testament to the toughness of the plant in general … drought tolerant, insect resistant, cold hardy and able to recover from mower blight over the years. Gambel oak are seemingly indestructible when compared to other landscaping.

Also known as scrub oak, they are normally found at higher elevations and can be discovered among the rocks and cliffs of the arid west. Of curiosity is the reliable pattern of the leaves they sport that stirs memor...