About
Quercus cerris, the Turkey oak, is a fast-growing, spreading, deciduous, very variable tree to 30 m. Narrow, dark-green leaves with deep, pointed lobes, acorns up to 4 cm long in shaggy-scaled cups are characteristic features. A vigorous and ornamental specimen tree for a large, sunny 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
AspectSouth-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeTrees
HabitSpreading branched
FoliageDeciduous
HeightHigher than 12 metres
Spreadwider than 8 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesCoastal
Native toS Europe, SW Asia
ToxicityPets (dogs): Harmful if eaten - for further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationGrows well in most deep, fertile soils
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by seed, sown as soon as ripe, in a cold frame
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to oak processionary moth, aphids, caterpillars, leaf-mining moths and oak gall wasps
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews