[4][5] Quercus hypoleucoides, though usually seen as a shrub, can be found to be a full-sized tree, 9 metres (30 feet) tall in areas where it receives sufficient water.

[9] Q. hypoleucoides can be distinguished from other oaks by its lanceolate leaves which are dark green on top but silver white on the lower surface.

[8] It also is found in coniferous forests and high elevated lands from 1,500–2,400 m (5,000 to 8,000 ft) above sea level.

[11] Specimens have also been collected south of the international frontier, in Sonora, Chihuahua, Coahuila, and Sinaloa.

It is a vigorous post-fire resprouter and will form a multi-stem shrub in areas of repeated fire.