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If you are looking for a good shade tree to compliment your landscape, I recommend the Mexican White Oak, Quercus polymorpha, also known as Monterrey Oak.
This tree is amazingly drought tolerant and is virtually insect and disease free with no signs of anthracnose or aphids. It is considered "nearly evergreen" and will not drop its leaves until the temperatures hit the teens. The new spring foliage emerges pink to red. The tree reaches a mature size of 40 - 60 feet in height with an equal spread and casts a very dense shade at maturity. The Mexican White Oak is cold tolerant to at least 10 below zero and is hardy in USDA Hardiness Zones 7-10. The thick leathery leaves are large, lightly serrated and range in color from light green to blue green.
The Mexican White Oak makes a wonderful street tree, shade tree, or barrier against sound, light, and unsightly views. I highly recommend this tree as a new addition to your landscape.
Mike Engleman, Smith County Master Gardener
Texas AgriLife Extension Service