Tree Information
Common Name: live oak
Scientific Name: Quercus virginiana
Native/Naturalized: Native to Virginia
Database ID: 791
Status: alive
National Champion: no
Virginia Champion: no
Trunk Girth: 282 in.
Tree Height: 47 ft.
Crown Spread: 68 ft.
Points: 346
Date Last Measured: 2025
Last Measured by: Norfolk Master Gardener Significant Tree Program Volunteers
Date First Measured: 1989
Comments:
2025 comments: Known as the Willoughby Oak, this live oak resides on the grounds of the Norfolk Naval Station. The tree appears healthy and is producing many acorns. The Navy, with the assistance of an arborist, has developed a maintenance program to maintain the health and vitality of this tree. The tree is fenced off for protection and health. The trunk circumference was measured after the removal of several older vines (English ivy). No adjustments were made to the measuring process, so the circumference difference from before is believed to be due to recent removal of the vines on the trunk. The height difference from 10 years ago is due to some minor branch loss and improved measurement accuracy.
2015 comments: Known as the Willoughby Oak, this live oak resides on the grounds of the Norfolk Naval Station. Originally nominated in 1989, this tree had a brief tenure as state champion in 2006. The tree is fenced off for protection and preservation and appears in good health. Although it has numerous vines growing on it, the Navy is planning vine removal. It appears to have lost an upper branch section (as noted in comparison of 2005 and 2015 pictures), resulting in a decrease in tree height. Tree circumference (measured at 4.5' above ground) and crown spread have increased. Measured on 10/16/15 by Bob Hudson and members of the Norfolk Master Gardener Volunteer Significant Tree Program. The measurements were 288", 48', and 65' for a total of 352 points.
Location of Tree
Tree is located in: City of Norfolk
Land Owner: U.S. Navy
GPS Coordinates: 36.95222, -76.26927
Directions: Located on Naval Station Norfolk inside and to the north of Gate 4 (W. Bay Ave.). Military Base access is required for close up view. Public viewing, from approximately 90 yards, can be accomplished from outside base perimeter fence line via Rippard Avenue. An information sign is posted and viewable from road. Both Gate 4 and Rippard Avenue can be accessed via West Bay Ave.
Contact Information
Contact Name: James Micalizzi
Contact Email: james.d.micalizzi.civ@navy.mil
Contact Address: 7542 Maryland Ave
Norfolk, VA 23511
Contact Phone: 757-341-0649
Contact Info: Norfolk Master Gardener Volunteers via nmgvhelpline@gmail.com or 757-683-2855.
Nominators
Original Nominator(s): Steven Martin
Additional Information
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