Quercus ilex
holm oak
A large evergreen tree with black, finely cracked bark, developing a massive, rounded crown. Glossy dark green, ovate leaves, whitish beneath contrast with whitish young foliage and yellow catkins
Size
Ultimate height
Higher than 12 metresTime to ultimate height
20–50 yearsUltimate spread
Wider than 8 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Yellow | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Green | Brown | ||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or North–facing or East–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or ShelteredDrought resistance
Yes Hardiness
H4Botanical details
- Family
- Fagaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy
- Potentially harmful
- Pets (dogs): Harmful if eaten - for further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
- Genus
Quercus can be deciduous or evergreen trees or shrubs, with entire, lobed or toothed leaves; flowers inconspicuous, followed by characteristic acorns; sometimes good autumn colour
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Mediterranean
How to grow
Cultivation
An easy to grow evergreen tree that responds well to formative pruning and clipping. Can be used as hedging in coastal areas and is suitable for most sites except the coldest inland areas. Leaf fall can occur in summer
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown in a coldframe or seedbed as soon as ripe or by grafting in mid-autumn or late winter
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Coastal
- Mediterranean climate plants
- Hedging and screens
Pruning
Pests
May be susceptible to aphids and leaf-mining moths
Diseases
May be susceptible to powdery mildews and honey fungus
Get involved
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