About

Quercus canariensis, the Algerian oak, is a large, initially narrow then broadly rounded, deciduous tree with glossy, dark-green leaves up to 15 cm that persist well into winter. A fast-growing and ornamental oak for a large, sunny, well-drained garden.

About the genus

Quercus, the oaks, are a large genus of deciduous or evergreen trees or shrubs with entire, lobed or toothed leaves; inconspicuous flowers; and characteristic acorn fruits, sometimes with good autumn colour. Many are long-lived, wildlife-supporting specimen trees.

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectWest-facing, East-facing, South-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5

Plant details

Plant typeTrees
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
HeightHigher than 12 metres
Spreadwider than 8 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, Cottage and informal garden
Native toSW Europe, N Africa
ToxicityPets (dogs): Harmful if eaten - for further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants

Care notes

CultivationGrow in deep, fertile, well-drained soil. A fast growing spreading deciduous tree
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by seed, sowing as soon as ripe, in a coldframe or grafting in mid-atumn or early winter
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to oak processionary moth, aphids, caterpillars, leaf-mining moths and oak gall wasps
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews amd honey fungus