Cork oak - Quercus suber (Care, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Cork oak

Cork oak is a medium-sized tree that can be found along the western Mediterranean shore. This tree has several uses, but its bark stands out since it can be used to make stoppers for wine bottles, building materials for infrastructure, and even components for automobiles. Additionally, this tree is amiable to birds and squirrels.

Scientific classification

Species

Cork oak (Quercus suber)

Beeches, walnuts, and allied trees

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Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

12 m to 21 m

Plant Height

12 m to 21 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Brown, Red, Copper

Fruit Color

Yellow, Green

Flower Color

Green, Cream

Stem Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of Cork oak

Distribution of Cork oak

Distribution Map

Cork oak is originally native to the Mediterranean region of southern Europe, North Africa, and some parts of western Europe. This plant has been introduced and cultivated beyond its native range, notably in southeastern Africa. Cork oak thrives in both its natural and introduced environments, expanding its presence across continents.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Siliceous hills on the littoral

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Quickly Identify Cork oak

Distinctive spongy and corky bark with a pale gray hue and deep reddish-brown crevices.

Oval to oblong acorns with a shaggy, cup-shaped cap, measuring 1 to 1.5 inches (2.5 to 3.8 cm).

Alternating, ovate to elliptical leaves with dark green upper side and gray, hairy underside.

Light gray stem covered in fuzzy hairs, with reddish-brown buds and robust branching pattern.

Impressive stature reaching 70 to 100 feet (21 to 30 meters) with an equally wide crown.

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Care Guide for Cork oak

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Cork oak, native to the Mediterranean, thrives in dry summer and mild, wet winters. It has high drought tolerance, requiring watering every 2-3 weeks. As an evergreen, cork oak needs consistent soil moisture without over-saturation to promote healthy growth outdoors.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, cork oak thrives on balanced fertilizers with equal NPK ratios. In spring, high nitrogen fertilizers encourage foliage. Fertilize every 2-3 years, following product instructions and considering cork oak's size. Excessive nitrogen can weaken cork oak; fertilize when soil is moist and water post-application.

Pruning: Renowned for its thick bark used in cork production, cork oak requires pruning to promote health and shape. Key practices involve removing damaged branches and thinning overcrowded areas. Optimal pruning occurs in late winter, which minimizes stress and encourages growth while enhancing cork yield.

Propagation: Cork oak is propagated by sowing high-quality acorns in well-draining soil at an appropriate depth. Consistent moisture is vital during germination to avoid waterlogging. Once seedlings are robust, they can be transplanted to a permanent location, contributing to ecosystems and producing valuable cork.

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