Quercus ilex

A very large, evergreen oak that originates from the Mediterranean Basin. The trunk is very dark, almost black. Is is delicately grooved. The tree leaves are simple and relatively small. Their tops are dark green and tend to turn silver and be coarse. The tree’s foliage is dense and provides abundant shade. It bears acorns that mature over several months in summer and fall in autumn. The acorns that fall to the ground need to be taken into consideration when the trees are planted on boulevards. Although it is considered to have a slow rate of growth, watering in its first years will significantly accelerate its growth. It is usually considered to require minimal water once it is established. It is not picky about soil, but it struggles with the temperatures in the Jordan Valley and Aravah regions. Note that even though it is considered to be very resistant to diseases and pests, it will be more susceptible to sooty mold in the coastal plain and lowlands. Due to its propagation from acorns, there is great variety in the shape of the leaves (size and serrated or smooth), in the trunk color and the canopy shape. This is a very impressive tree, and its fresh and dense foliage gives it a classic look. It would be a great addition to parks and along streets and boulevards.

This is a popular and preferred tree in Europe to plant along city streets, along with Quercus robur. Interestingly, in Europe, the tree is also planted in orchards to grow truffles between its roots. The tree’s wood is especially strong and used to be used in construction. Today it is also used in the coal industry. The tree is long-lived, and there are trees in the world that are hundreds of years old.

More in the same family: Quercus suber | Quercus ithaburensis | Quercus ilex |Quercus robur | Quercus robur ‘Fastigiata’ | Quercus calliprinos | Quercus virginiana | Hybrid Quercus suber x Q. ithaburensis ‘Goliath’ | Chestnut oak | Quercus libani | Quercus boissieri | Hybrid Quercus suber x Q. libani ‘Eliyahu’