Quercus suber · Fagaceae

Cork Oak

⚠️ Not safe for petsSlow growth at first but can be very long-lived.5 to 25 m

LightFull sun

WaterLow

DifficultyEasy

ColdResistant to temperatures down to -5 degrees Celsius.

Full sunLowEasyResistant to temperatures down to -5 degrees Celsius.

Description & origin

The cork oak is an iconic tree of Portugal, known for its cork bark. It is a perennial species that can reach large sizes and is quite resilient to adverse conditions.

Size

Can reach significant heights, so it should be planted in spacious areas.

Foliage

Green, alternate leaves with an oval shape.

Flowering

Small, discreet flowers that appear in spring.

Detailed care

Light

Prefers full sun but tolerates some shade.

Soil

Prefers well-drained soils, slightly acidic to neutral.

Watering

Requires little water, especially once established.

Temperature

Resistant to moderate temperatures but sensitive to severe frosts.

Fertilising

Fertilize once a year in spring with a balanced fertilizer.

Repotting

Transplant carefully to avoid damaging the roots.

Pruning

Light pruning to maintain shape and remove dead branches.

Propagation

Can be propagated by seeds or cuttings.

Common problems

Insect pests

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

Fungal diseases

Susceptible to some fungal diseases in conditions of excessive moisture.

Dehydration

During prolonged dry periods, it may show signs of dehydration.

Uses & curiosities

In the garden

Ideal for large gardens
Used as a shade tree
Attracts local wildlife such as birds and pollinating insects

Other uses

Important in the cork industry.

Did you know…

The cork from the cork oak is used in the production of wine corks, making it an important economic resource for the country.