Description

General aspect and origins - Quercus suber is also known as the cork oak. It is a tree which is native to Southern Europe and Northern Africa. This genus has more than 600 species, most of which live in the Northern hemisphere. Many of these species are trees that can live up to 250 years old. With age, this tree has a very thick bark, which can be up to 12 in (30 cm) deep.
Leaves - Leaves are evergreen, alternate, entire or slightly dented, and are about 2 in (5 cm) long. They are dark green on the upper side, and pale grey-green on the lower side.
Flowers - Flowers appear in mid to late spring, male and female flowers appearing on the same tree. (This tree is monoecious.)
Fruits - The fruits are oblong-shaped acorns, which are about 1 in (2.5 cm) long.

Culture

This tree can withstand frosts down to about 5°F, but leaves will be damaged below about 10°F. It thus can be grown in USDA zones 8 and warmer, and can be tried in sheltered areas in USDA zones 7.
Soil - This species dislikes alcaline soils.

Propagation

This plant can be propagated by seeds.