Peter J. Shields Oak Grove Exhibits
Students, faculty and volunteer community members develop the content for every permanent exhibit in the UC Davis Arboretum and Public Garden using an in-depth interpretive signage creation process.
Peter J. Shields Oak Grove
More than 80 kinds of oaks are found in the Peter J. Shields Oak Grove, including a fine collection of oaks native to the western United States and many trees that are rare in cultivation. With its open vistas and wide sweeping lawns, the grove is a popular retreat for students and visitors. The Arboretum’s oak collection is part of the national oak collection through the North American Plant Collections Consortium, marking its significance to the scientific community. The oak grove is named for Judge Peter J. Shields, one of the founders of the UC Davis campus.
DID YOU KNOW?
- Shields Oak Grove is named for Judge Peter J. Shields, often called the father of the UC Davis campus. Judge Shields and his wife Carolee created a fund to provide support for the Arboretum’s land along the waterway.
- There are approximately 500 species of oak trees and shrubs in the world. The UC Davis Arboretum collection includes about 100 species, varieties, and hybrids.
- Oaks grow from 2 feet to 200 feet tall—they are extremely variable in appearance.
- Jays “plant” oak trees by stashing their acorns underground.
Self-Guided Tour
Get to know a few of the over 100 species, hybrids and varieties of oaks in the Peter J. Shields Oak Grove with this student-created, self-guided tour. (Click here to download.)
Video Interview with Dr. John M. Tucker
Dr. John M. Tucker, botany professor, discusses his professional career as well as his involvement with the creation of our Shields Oak Grove. (Note: In this video he states that this oak collection is the largest in U.S. It is the largest in the southwest U.S.)
