Quercus suber · Fagaceae

Cork Oak

✅ Pet-friendlyEvergreen, maintaining foliage throughout the year.100 to 300 cm

LightFull sun

WaterLow; tolerates drought well.

DifficultyMedium

ColdTolerates prolonged negative temperatures.

Full sunLow; tolerates drought well.MediumTolerates prolonged negative temperatures.

Description & origin

The cork oak is an iconic tree of the Mediterranean landscape, known for its thick bark and high-quality cork. In domestic cultivation, it can be maintained as a small to medium-sized tree, ideal for spacious gardens.

Size

Can reach up to 300 cm in domestic cultivation.

Foliage

Evergreen foliage, remaining green throughout the year.

Flowering

This species does not produce flowers in domestic cultivation.

Detailed care

Light

Prefers full sun for healthy growth.

Soil

Adapts to poor soils but prefers well-drained soils.

Watering

Requires low watering, tolerating drought well once established.

Temperature

Tolerates cold well, being resistant to frost.

Fertilising

Fertilize annually in spring to promote vigorous growth.

Repotting

Transplant with care due to the deep root system.

Pruning

Prune in late winter to maintain the desired shape.

Propagation

Propagates by seed, but growth is slow.

Common problems

Insect pests

Can be attacked by pests such as the cork oak caterpillar.

Fungal diseases

Vulnerable to fungal diseases in high humidity conditions.

Slow growth

Growth can be slow, especially in poor soils.

Uses & curiosities

In the garden

Shade creation
Wildlife attraction
Cork production

Other uses

High-quality cork production.

Did you know…

The cork from the cork oak is used for wine stoppers and other products. This tree can live for hundreds of years.