About
Evergreen tree, about 10m tall, with densely, rust-coloured, hairy stems and branches with prominent bud scars. Small creamy-white spring flowers are borne on short, upright spikes near the ends of the branches and may be followed by clusters of greenish acorns. Elliptic or ovate, dark green leathery leaves are 22cm long, densely hairy beneath.
About the genus
A genus of 325 species of evergreen trees known as 'Stone Oaks' with lance-shaped, dark green, leathery toothed foliage and upright spikes of creamy-white flowers, followed by green to brown-coloured acorns
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeTrees
HabitSpreading branched
FoliageEvergreen
Height8-12 metres
Spread4-8 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, Cottage and informal garden, Mediterranean climate plants, Sub-tropical
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moist but well-drained acid soil in sun or part shade with shelter from cold winds. Suited to mild counties with frost free conditions only or city centre locations with a microclimate
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by seed in containers in a cold frame in autumn
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free