It was founded in 1934 to advance the culture, distribution, preservation, and appreciation of the southern live oak (Quercus virginiana) and functions under the auspices of the Louisiana Garden Club Federation, Inc.[1][2] By 2013, more than 7,000 live oaks were registered with the Society.

[1] In 1957, responsibility for maintaining records and registering new applicants was assumed by the Louisiana Garden Club Federation, Inc.[3] According to Society bylaws, the only human member permitted in the Society is the honorary chairman, who is responsible for registering and recording live oak members.

[1] In 2013, the Live Oak Society had 7,114 registered members dating from 1934, but many of the earliest registrants are labeled deceased.

[4] In 1968, Seven Sisters Oak achieved President status and has retained the title with a girth of more than 38 feet (12 meters), as measured in 2008.

[5] The largest stand (group) of registered live oaks, consisting of more than 200 trees, is located in City Park (New Orleans).