About
Lithocarpus edulis, the edible stone oak, is an evergreen tree or spreading bushy shrub reaching up to 9 m with narrow, oval, leathery leaves to 15 cm long, yellowish-green above and dull-green beneath. Spring flowers in short, erect spikes to 7 cm are followed by acorns that take two seasons to reach their full size of up to 2.5 cm. A handsome evergreen tree for a sheltered garden.
About the genus
Lithocarpus, the stone oaks, are evergreen trees with lance-shaped, dark-green, leathery, toothed foliage and upright spikes of creamy-white flowers followed by green to brown acorns. Grown as ornamental evergreen trees in sheltered gardens.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeTrees, Shrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height8-12 metres
Spread4-8 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesArchitectural
Native toC & S Japan
Care notes
CultivationGrow in an acidic or neutral, well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade; provide shelter from cold, drying winds in frost-prone areas
PruningPruning group 8
PropagationPropagate by seed or by semi-hardwood cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free