Holm Oak, Evergreen Oak
quercus ilex
Also known as: ["Evergreen Oak","Holly Oak","Ilex Oak"]
Overview
A large, evergreen oak species native to the Mediterranean region, known for its dense foliage and longevity.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","disease resistant","deer resistant","cold hardy","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fagales |
| Family: | Fagaceae |
| Genus: | Quercus |
| Botanical Name: | Quercus ilex |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden, adaptable to various landscapes
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"−10–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to moderate-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter. Tolerates poor, rocky soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or biennially, depending on growth rate and maintenance needs.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, as needed for shaping or removing large branches.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates shade but thrives with ample light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Avoid sudden light changes; use shade cloth in extreme heat; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–14 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-drained, alkaline to neutral soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0), but adaptable to alkaline soils.
Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 7–10. Prefers mild temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C) but tolerates heat and cold snaps.
Protect from frost; water deeply in heat; adjust care based on seasonal extremes.
Fertilizing
every 3–4 months during spring and summer
Avoid over-fertilizing; fertilize only if growth is poor; use organic options like compost or worm castings.
Propagation
Methods
Seed or semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer or early fall.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant when rooted. For seeds: collect, stratify, sow, and keep moist.
Best Time: Late summer to early fall for cuttings; autumn for seeds after collection.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid environment with indirect light for cuttings; cold stratification may aid seed germination.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand for cuttings; seed-starting mix for seeds.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for cuttings to improve success rate.
Timeline
Cuttings may root in 8–12 weeks; seeds can take 1–2 years to germinate and establish.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining medium, humidity dome or plastic bag.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; be patient with seed germination.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the canopy; heading cuts to reduce height or encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead/diseased wood, and improve air circulation. Best done in late winter or early spring before new growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood first; make clean cuts.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter for container-grown plants.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Generally not required for mature trees in the wild. Container-grown plants may need repotting every 3–5 years if root-bound.
Checklist
Check root boundness; choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; water after repotting; provide shade for recovery.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during spring and summer, reducing frequency to every 3–4 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; incorporate sand or perlite for drainage; use mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch (brown edges) in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in prolonged cold or frost.
Cold Stress
Leaves may wilt, turn brown, or drop in temperatures below 20°F (-6°C). Young plants are more susceptible than mature trees.
Solution: Protect with frost cloth or mulch in winter; plant in sheltered locations; avoid watering before freezing temperatures.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced growth during prolonged heat waves above 90°F (32°C).
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; water deeply in early morning; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check soil nutrients; apply in spring; avoid late-season fertilization; water after application.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Apply sparingly, as mature oaks are generally low-maintenance.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are also susceptible to mild gastrointestinal issues if they consume acorns or leaves of Quercus ilex. The tannins can irritate their digestive tract, causing discomfort and potential health issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest significant amounts of acorns or leaves from Quercus ilex. The tannins present can cause irritation to the dog's digestive system, leading to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicQuercus ilex, commonly known as Holm Oak, contains tannins in its acorns and leaves which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested in large quantities. The physiological impact is primarily due to the astringent properties of tannins, which can lead to irritation of the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Quercus ilex suitable for urban environments?
A: Yes, it is highly adaptable to urban conditions and can tolerate pollution and compacted soils.
Q: How fast does Quercus ilex grow?
A: It is a slow to moderate grower, typically gaining about 12-24 inches per year.
Q: Does Quercus ilex produce acorns?
A: Yes, it produces acorns, which are an important food source for wildlife.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fagaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–14 days during activ |
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