Species kermes oak

kermes oak

Quercus coccifera

Kermes oak (Quercus coccifera) is a drought-resistant Mediterranean evergreen oak tree native to Southern Europe, North Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Central Asia. Growing up to 35 feet (10 m) tall, it has a spreading, open canopy with grey-green, leathery leaves. The bark is a reddish-brown color and the fruits are inconspicuous acorns. Kermes oak is popular for its medicinal properties including as an astringent, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory. Its hardwood is also valued for uses such as walking sticks and furniture. It is a popular ornamental tree for a landscape.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Cutting,Layering Propagation,Grafting Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

6 - 8

Flowers:

Yellowish-green Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

The Kermes Oak is a Mediterranean species that requires well-draining soil and plenty of sun. It prefers periods of drought and needs only occasional supplemental irrigation. During warm months, water every 7 to 10 days, providing 1/2 inch of water each time. During cooler months, limit watering to once every 2 weeks to help the tree become dormant. Remember to check the soil before watering, as the tree can tolerate dry soil better than overly wet soil. Keep in mind that if rainfall adequately meets its moisture needs, the tree may not need any additional irrigation.

sunlight

Kermes Oak (Quercus coccifera) is a Mediterranean plant species that prefers full sun. It grows best in locations with a minimum of 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. This plant is tolerant of hot temperatures, and can also tolerate partial shade in climates with hot summers. In areas with cooler temperatures, it may not flourish under partial shade and will benefit from more direct, full-sun exposure. The plant should never be exposed to temperatures below -4°C.

pruning

Kermes oak should be pruned twice a year to maintain shape, prevent crowding and encourage healthy new growth. Cut back dead, diseased and crossing branches and stems in early spring, before active growth begins. Thinning out too-congested growth will also improve air circulation, and reduce pest and disease incidence. For ornamental purposes prune the same time of year (early spring) to maintain desired shape. No more than 10-15% of the tree should be removed when pruning. If large pruning is necessary, remove no more than 20-30% at any 1 time instead.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Kermes oak typically starts flowering in April.

Hardiness Map