holm oak

Also known as: evergreen oak; holly oak; holly-leaved oak; ilex

Q. ilex is 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

Scientific classification

Species: holm oak (Quercus ilex)
Genus: Quercus
Family: Fagaceae

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Toxicity: Trees
Plant type: Higher than 12 metres
Height: wider than 8 metres
Spread: Evergreen
Foliage: Bushy
Habit: Spring · Summer · Autumn · Winter
Season of interest: Full sun · Partial shade
Sunlight: Information to be completed
Ideal temperature

holm oak pictures

Distribution of holm oak

Distribution map

Mediterranean

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Culture

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Toxicity

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Quick identification of holm oak

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holm oak care guide

Moderate deep watering, tolerate dry soil in hot summer weather
Watering: Full sun · Partial shade
Sunlight: Information to be completed
Ideal temperature

Watering

Moderate deep watering, tolerate dry soil in hot summer weather

Fertilizing

Tree slow-release feed applied once annually in early spring

Pruning

Little pruning is needed. Remove diseased, damaged, crowded or crossing shoots and unwanted growth. Timing depends on the plant: generally late winter or early spring; plants prone to bleeding and deciduous magnolias need different timing, and deciduous azaleas and lilacs are pruned after flowering.

Propagation

Propagate by seed sown in a coldframe or seedbed as soon as ripe or by grafting in mid-autumn or late winter

Growing

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

More growing and care information →