Quercus laurifolia is a tree growing to 20–24 meters (65–80 feet) (rarely to 40 m or 130 ft) tall, with a large, circular crown.

The acorns, borne in a shallow[3] or deep[3][4] cup, are hemispherical[3] or oblong,[3][4] 8.5–16 millimeters (5⁄16–5⁄8 in)[3] but up to one inch (2.5 cm)[4] long, green, maturing blackish-brown about 18 months after pollination.

However, this theory has not achieved wide support, with current authors accepting Quercus laurifolia as a distinct species (e.g. Flora of North America).

[3] Swamp laurel oak grows from coastal Virginia to central Florida and west to southeast Texas.

It will tolerate the wetter sites in association with other oak species but will not live with continuous or prolonged flooding.

Trees growing in Cincinnati indicate the laurel oak may be hardy even further north than previously thought tolerating temperatures lower than −29 °C (−20 °F) and surviving into zone 5.

It is commonly used as an ornamental tree in landscaping because of its fast growth and pleasing appearance; it is planted with little regard to soil type.