Thick-stem Oak

quercus pachyloma

Also known as: ["Thick-stem Oak"]

Family: Fagaceae Genus: Quercus Category: Trees

Overview

A deciduous tree species native to East Asia, known for its thick stems and acorns.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Fagales
Family: Fagaceae
Genus: Quercus
Botanical Name: Quercus pachyloma

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Trees
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sheltered spot with good air circulation
  • Suitable For:
    Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"7–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Well-draining but moisture-retentive.
  • Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning as needed year-round.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate for young trees; light for mature specimens.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Young trees benefit from partial shade, especially in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate young trees gradually to full sun; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on age and climate.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves (overwatering or poor drainage); stunted growth (nutrient deficiency or compacted soil).

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

partial shade to full sun

Morning sun is ideal; provide shade during peak heat; rotate outdoor placement seasonally.

Watering

every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly until runoff; allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid waterlogging.

Soil

well-drained, loamy soil with high organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).

Avoid heavy clay; ensure good aeration; test pH periodically.

Temperature

Hardy in USDA zones 5–9; tolerates temperatures between -20°C to 30°C (-4°F to 86°F). Prefers cool winters and moderate summers.

Protect from late frosts; water deeply before cold snaps; avoid sudden temperature shifts.

Fertilizing

every 2 months during spring and summer, none in fall and winter

Fertilize only if growth is poor; avoid late-season feeding; water well after application.

Propagation

Methods

Seed or root cuttings (semi-hardwood).

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Collect mature seeds or cuttings.
  2. Prepare medium.
  3. Plant.
  4. Maintain moisture.
  5. Transplant when rooted.

Best Time: Late winter (seeds) or early summer (cuttings).

Environment

Warm (20–25°C), high humidity, and partial shade.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for cuttings.

Timeline

Seeds: 1–2 years to germinate; cuttings: 8–12 weeks to root.

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use fresh seeds for best germination; keep cuttings consistently moist; protect from direct sun.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Thinning cuts to open canopy; heading cuts to control height; remove crossing branches.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead/diseased branches; shape young trees; maintain structural integrity.

Tools

Hand pruners, loppers, pruning saw, sterilizing solution.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead/diseased wood; make clean cuts; avoid over-pruning.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–5 cm (1–2 inches) for container-grown trees.

Method

Use well-draining soil; trim roots if pot-bound; ensure proper drainage holes.

Suggestions

Not typically required for mature trees; container-grown specimens may need repotting every 3–5 years.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots; refresh soil; water well.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.

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.

Pro Tip: Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation for even moisture distribution.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once every 7–10 days during growing season; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.

Soil Improvement

Add compost or well-rotted manure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; mulch to retain moisture.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Leaf scorch in excessive heat; delayed bud break in cold stress; leaf drop in extreme conditions.

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may cause dieback in extreme cold; roots are vulnerable to frost heave.

Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect young trees with burlap screens; avoid planting in frost pockets.

Hot Stress

Leaves may wilt or scorch; growth may stagnate; increased susceptibility to pests.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use reflective mulch to reduce ground heat.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check soil fertility; use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; water thoroughly.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas. Apply sparingly every 2–3 years for mature trees.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Quercus pachyloma may indicate nutrient deficiencies, such as iron chlorosis, water stress, or root damage, affecting overall plant health and photosynthetic efficiency.

Wilting in Quercus pachyloma is often a sign of water stress, either due to insufficient soil moisture or root damage, which can lead to reduced nutrient uptake and potential plant death if prolonged.

Leaf spots on Quercus pachyloma are typically caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthetic area, premature leaf drop, and potential spread of infection to other parts of the plant.

Rotting in Quercus pachyloma, particularly root or stem rot, is commonly caused by fungal pathogens in waterlogged soils, leading to decay of plant tissues, impaired water transport, and eventual plant decline.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats are also susceptible to gastrointestinal irritation if they consume parts of Quercus pachyloma. The tannins can cause digestive upset and other mild symptoms.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression anorexia
🌿 Toxic Parts:
acorns leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing acorns and leaves. If ingestion is suspected, seek veterinary advice promptly to address any potential toxicity.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

Dogs may experience gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Quercus pachyloma, particularly the acorns. The tannins present can irritate the digestive system and lead to discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite
🌿 Toxic Parts:
acorns leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep dogs away from acorns and leaves of the plant. If ingestion occurs, monitor the dog closely and consult a veterinarian if symptoms persist.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Quercus pachyloma, like many oak species, contains tannins which can cause gastrointestinal distress and other symptoms if ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is primarily due to the binding of tannins with proteins in the digestive tract, leading to reduced nutrient absorption and potential irritation.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea stomach pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
acorns leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid consuming any parts of the plant, especially acorns, which should be thoroughly processed (e.g., leached) if used for food, though this is not recommended without expert guidance.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Quercus pachyloma suitable for small gardens?

A: No, it is a large tree and requires ample space.

Q: Does this oak species produce acorns?

A: Yes, it produces acorns which are a food source for wildlife.

Q: How fast does Quercus pachyloma grow?

A: It has a moderate growth rate, typically gaining about 1-2 feet per year.

Quick Reference
Family: Fagaceae
Care: moderate
Light: partial shade to full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during growi
Suitable For: ["outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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