Quercus ilex | Holm Oak | Evergreen Oak

Native to Eastern Mediterranean countries, the Quercus ilex has grown in the UK since the 1500's. This is an impressive, large, evergreen Oak; hardy and versatile. It grows well in most well-drained soil and is resistant to salt spray, making it ideal for coastal areas and an excellent windbreak. Also tolerant of shady areas and air pollution, it can be seen planted on wide roadsides and urban settlings. The leaves are oval, dark green and pale underneath with a fine layer of hairs. Small, yellow catkins appear in spring, and in autumn green acorns grow then ripen to dark red-brown, at which point they're fed to pigs reared for Ibérico ham! Being evergreen and good for pruning and shaping, the Quercus ilex is popular for hedging and various forms of topiary. When allowed to mature naturally as a specimen tree, this evergreen oak develops a large rounded crown and can reach heights of 20-25m.

Mature Height

20m+

Tree Features

Black, bark with fine cracks.

Dark green oval leaves.

Small, green acorns that turn dark red-brown when ripe.

Growing Conditions

Most well-drained soil and tolerant of salt spray, shade and air pollution, but not freezing cold winters.

Season of Interest

Winter - Good evergreen screening.

Tree Type

Standard, Bush, Multistem, Umbrella, Pleached, Topiary, Hedging

Growing Locations

Parklands, Gardens in certain forms, Coastal, Screening, Windbreaks, Specimen Tree, City/Town, Street Planting, Gardens

Evergreen / Deciduous?

Evergreen
Did you know?

In ancient Greece, the leaves of the holm oak were used to tell the future, and to make crowns to honour people. The acorn was a symbol of fertility and worn to increase chances of conception.