English oak - Quercus robur (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images, Toxic)

English oak

Also known as: Pedunculate oak

The english oak (*Quercus robur*) is a deciduous tree native to Europe. It is a very long-lived tree; the oldest known specimens have been living for more than a thousand years. It is commonly represented in European mythologies as a symbol of strength, longevity, nobility, morale, and knowledge.

Scientific classification

Species

English oak (Quercus robur)

Beeches, walnuts, and allied trees

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

10 m to 50 m

Plant Height

30 m

Spread

Green, Brown, Yellow

Leaf Color

5 cm to 8 cm

Flower Size

Brown

Fruit Color

Green, Yellow

Flower Color

Brown, Green

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of English oak

Distribution of English oak

Distribution Map

English oak has a native range from Great Britain across the whole of Europe. It has been introduced as an ornamental to some areas of Africa, North America, and New Zealand. English oak loves clay soil and grows predominantly in woodland regions.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Woodland

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Environmental Protection Value

English oak can conserve water and soil.

Economic Value

English oak wood can be used in buildings, bridges and furniture.

Garden Use

English oak grows luxuriously and vigorously, creating shelter and visual appeal in a short period of time. It is thus a popular choice for new landscaping projects in both commercial and residential settings. Pine trees make good neighbors for this oak, with Rhododendrons and hardy ferns beneath.

Symbolism

Nobility, strength

Interesting Facts

In many ancient religions, myths and legends, the english oak is sacred. In different civilizations, the english oak is regarded as different gods. The Celts consider the english oak very sacred, and it is an important part of their divination.

Name Story

English oak: The name, English oak implies that it is originated from England. What might strike you awe and wonder is that it has a long life span in which there are some of the trees lived more than 1000 years. Furthermore, the genus name, Quercus is actually translated from the word, oak.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of English oak, including the following common varieties :

English oak 'Fastigiata Koster'Oaks 'Lucombeana'

Toxicity

English oak is mildly toxic to humans, cats, and dogs. Consumption of its leaves or seeds may lead to symptoms like stomachache, constipation, diarrhea, extreme thirst, vomiting, and behavioral changes. Immediate veterinary care is advised for pets showing signs of poisoning after ingestion.

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Quickly Identify English oak

Deeply lobed dark green leaves with ear-like lobes at base, 3-7 pairs.

Yellow-green catkins and 1-inch-long oval acorns on 1-3 inch stalks.

Distinct male and female flowers blooming simultaneously in spring, yellowish-green.

Smooth, yellow-brown stem with stout, flexible twigs and angled brown buds.

Robust trunk with grayish-brown to black bark, deep fissures with rugged texture.

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Care Guide for English oak

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Native to temperate climates, english oak requires moderate moisture and can tolerate brief droughts. Watering should occur every 1-2 weeks, decreasing in winter during dormancy and increasing in the growing season to support its canopy.

Fertilize: To ensure robust growth, english oak should be fertilized annually in spring with a balanced fertilizer (2-4 lbs per 1000 sq ft). Early spring applications of high nitrogen fertilizers promote leaf development. Use slow-release formulas and avoid trunk application to prevent burn and manage nutrient absorption.

Pruning: English oak thrives with early spring pruning, prioritizing the removal of dead, diseased, or crossing branches. This practice enhances air circulation, sunlight access, and tree resilience. Dormant phase pruning reduces stress and disease risk, ensuring aesthetic and structural integrity with regular maintenance.

Propagation: English oak propagates effectively through hardwood cuttings, layering, and seeds, ideally in autumn and winter. Success is marked by healthy root systems and shoots. Ensure cuttings or seeds are disease-free and sourced from vigorous growth for optimal results.

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Images of English oak

Distribution of English oak

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify English oak

Care Guide for English oak

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