Cork Oak

(Quercus suber)

Cork Oak (Quercus suber)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Quercus suber, commonly known as Cork Oak, is an evergreen tree native to the open woodlands and forest edges of the Mediterranean Region. It typically grows to a height of 10 to 15 meters (33 to 49 feet) with a trunk diameter of 50 to 90 centimeters (20 to 35 inches). The Cork Oak is notable for its thick, insulating bark that is harvested for commercial cork production. The tree’s dense, asymmetrical crown starts at a height of 2–3 meters (6+1⁄2–10 feet) and has a widespread, rounded form. The bark is gray-brown and deeply fissured, becoming darker after cork harvest. The Cork Oak is well-adapted to Mediterranean climates, tolerating drought and poor soil conditions.

The Cork Oak is valued for its unique cork bark, which is sustainably harvested without harming the tree. This feature makes it an important economic crop as well as an ornamental tree in gardens and landscapes. It is also planted for its resilience to dry conditions and its ability to thrive in a variety of soil types, including poor, dry, or rocky soils. The Cork Oak prefers full sun and can handle low to medium water conditions, with medium or fast-draining soils. It is not suited for dense plantings due to its need for light and space. Gardeners should be aware that the Cork Oak can be sensitive to cold temperatures, although it can withstand brief periods of frost down to −10 °C (14 °F).CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 40-70 feet
  • Width: 40-70 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fire Resistant, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Salt Tolerant

Natural Habitat

native to the open woodlands and forest edges of the Mediterranean Region

Other Names

Common Names: Korkeiche, Alcornoque, Suro, Chêne Liège, Quercia Da Sughero, Sorbreiro, Korkek, Dub Probkovyj, 西班牙栓皮櫟

Scientific Names: , Quercus suber, Quercus occidentalis, Quercus suber var. occidentalis, Quercus suber subsp. occidentalis, Quercus suber f. biennalis, Quercus suber f. vulgaris, Quercus suber subsp. microphylla, Quercus suber var. subcrinata, Quercus suber f. macrocarpa

GBIF Accepted Name: Quercus suber L.