Tanbark oak is a plant species in the oak family found in California and Mexico. It is also known as California tanbark oak, tanoak, or Lithocarpus densiflorus. This species is characterized by its large and evergreen leaves, which have a glossy green color and curve downward. Tanbark oak has been used historically for various purposes, including tanning leather, making charcoal, and as a source of food for indigenous cultures. Some other synonyms for tanbark oak include tan oak, mountain laurel oak, live oak, and beech oak. It is an important component of many west coast forests and plays a crucial ecological role in maintaining forest ecosystems.