Mediterranean Oak
quercus ithaburensis
Also known as: ["Tabor Oak","Mediterranean Oak"]
Overview
A deciduous oak tree native to the eastern Mediterranean region, known for its robust structure and acorns.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fagales |
| Family: | Fagaceae |
| Genus: | Quercus |
| Botanical Name: | Quercus ithaburensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a spacious area with room for canopy growth
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"−5–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter. Tolerates clay but prefers improved drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, depending on tree age and structure.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may become leggy or less vigorous.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate young trees gradually to full sun to prevent scorch. Protect from intense midday sun in hot climates. Outdoor placement is ideal; indoor growth is challenging due to light requirements.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate the plant for even light exposure; use supplemental grow lights indoors; monitor for sunburn signs.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks during dry periods, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; avoid waterlogging; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings.
Soil
deep, well-drained, loamy soil with moderate fertility
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Mulch to retain moisture; avoid heavy clay amendments; test soil pH periodically.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 7–9. Prefers temperate climates with mild winters and warm summers. Tolerates occasional frosts but thrives in 60–75°F (15–24°C).
Protect from frost in early spring; provide shade in summer; maintain consistent temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
annually in early spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer
Avoid over-fertilizing, which can harm roots; fertilize only if growth is poor; use organic options like compost or worm castings.
Propagation
Methods
Seed or root cuttings. Seeds require stratification for germination.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Seeds: collect, stratify, sow.
- Cuttings: select, treat, plant, maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late winter to early spring for seeds; late summer for root cuttings.
Environment
Cool, humid conditions for stratification; warm, bright, indirect light for cuttings.
Medium
Seed: moist sand or peat mix for stratification; cuttings: well-draining soil or perlite mix.
Hormone
Not necessary for seeds; rooting hormone can aid cuttings.
Timeline
Seeds: 18 months to germinate; cuttings: 4–8 weeks to root, 1–2 years to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, stratification container, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use fresh seeds for best germination; maintain consistent moisture for cuttings; be patient with oak propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the canopy; heading cuts to control height; removal of diseased or damaged wood.
Pruning Plan
Focus on structural shaping, removing dead or crossing branches, and maintaining a strong central leader.
Tools
Pruning saw, loppers, hand pruners, pole pruner (for tall trees).
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood first; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove soil gently, prune roots if necessary, replant in well-draining soil with added organic matter.
Suggestions
Not typically repotted, as it is an outdoor tree. Container-grown specimens may need repotting every 3–5 years.
Checklist
Check root bound status; use fresh soil; ensure drainage; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the trunk, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Apply slowly to avoid runoff, and continue until water drains from the bottom. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–14 days during active growth, reducing frequency to once a month in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; avoid compacting soil.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch (brown edges) in excessive heat; leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold; stunted growth in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Leaves may curl or drop; growth slows or halts; young trees are more susceptible to frost damage.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect young trees with frost cloth; avoid planting in exposed, windy sites.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or premature leaf drop; reduced growth; increased susceptibility to pests.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; avoid fertilizing during heatwaves.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Test soil before fertilizing; apply in spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; water after application.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Apply sparingly, as mature oaks generally do not require frequent feeding.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may suffer mild gastrointestinal irritation if they consume acorns or leaves of Quercus ithaburensis. The tannins in these parts can lead to digestive upset, though severe toxicity is rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest acorns or leaves of Quercus ithaburensis due to the presence of tannins. The effects are typically not severe but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe acorns and leaves of Quercus ithaburensis contain tannins, which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested in large quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to irritation of the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Quercus ithaburensis suitable for urban environments?
A: Yes, it is adaptable to urban conditions but requires sufficient space for root growth.
Q: Does this oak produce edible acorns?
A: The acorns are edible but often bitter and require processing.
Q: How fast does Quercus ithaburensis grow?
A: It has a moderate growth rate, typically gaining about 1 foot per year.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fagaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks during dry p |
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