Quercus Ilex

2-3 Litre Pot

• Position: Full sun, partial shade
• Soil: Moist, well drained
• Growth Rate: Slow
• Flowering Period: June
• Hardiness: H4
• Eventual Height: Higher than 12m
• Eventual Spread: Wider than 8m

Quercus Ilex, also known as the ‘Holm Oak’, is a large evergreen tree that is native to the Mediterranean region. It belongs to the Fagaceae family and is closely related to other oaks such as the ‘Cork Oak’ and the ‘Kermes Oak’.

Quercus Ilex can grow up to 26 metres tall and has a spread of 20 metres. It has a dense, rounded canopy with glossy, leathery, elliptical or oval-shaped leaves that are typically 4-7 cm  long and 2-4 cm wide. The leaves are dark green on the upper surface and paler beneath.

The flowers are small and inconspicuous, produced in separate catkins that emerge in early Spring. The acorns are large and ovoid, typically 2-3 cm long and 1.5-2 cm in diameter, with a cupule that covers about one-third of the nut.

The Holm Oak is a hardy plant that is well adapted to a range of soils, including poor, rocky, and alkaline soils. It prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. It is tolerant of drought, salt spray, and strong winds, making it a popular choice for coastal gardens.

Overall, Quercus Ilex is a versatile and attractive tree that is well-suited to a range of garden styles and climates. It provides year-round interest with its glossy foliage and large acorns and is a valuable resource for both humans and wildlife. With proper care and maintenance, it can live for several hundred years, making it a lasting addition to any landscape.

How to care for your Quercus Ilex

• Soil: Prefers well-drained soil that is neutral to slightly acidic. It can tolerate a range of soils, including poor and rocky soils. If the soil in your area is heavy or clayey, consider amending it with sand, perlite, or organic matter to improve drainage.
• Watering: It is relatively drought-tolerant but will benefit from regular watering during the first few years after planting to establish a strong root system. Water deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months. Avoid over-watering, as this can lead to root rot.
• Fertilising: Does not require regular fertilisation, but you can apply a slow-release fertiliser in the early Spring to provide some additional nutrients. Avoid over-fertilising, as this can lead to excessive growth and reduced hardiness.
• Pruning: Does not require regular pruning but can be pruned to remove dead or damaged wood, improve its shape, or reduce its size. Prune in the late Winter or early Spring before new growth begins.
• Mulching: Applying a layer of mulch around the base of the tree can help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. However, be careful not to pile the mulch up against the trunk, as this can lead to rot.
• Propagation: It can be propagated from seed or by taking semi-hardwood cuttings in the summer. If propagating from seed, make sure to scarify the seeds before planting to improve germination rates.

By following these care tips, your Quercus Ilex should thrive and provide you with year-round interest and beauty. Remember that this is a long-lived tree, so consider its mature size and placement carefully before planting.