Quercus variabilis, commonly known as Chinese Cork Oak, is a deciduous tree native to a variety of habitats including mixed forests, forest margins, and stream banks in Central and Southeastern China, Korea, Taiwan, Tibet, and Vietnam. It can grow to a height of 25–30 meters (82–98 feet) with a rather open crown, and is notable for its thick, deeply fissured corky bark which has been historically harvested for cork production. The leaves of the Chinese Cork Oak are oblong to lanceolate with serrated margins, turning yellowish-brown in autumn. It produces inconspicuous yellowish-green catkins in spring, followed by acorns that are valuable food sources for wildlife.

The Chinese Cork Oak is valued for its drought tolerance and its unique, thick bark that provides a distinctive texture in the landscape. It is used in reforestation projects, urban landscaping, and as a specimen tree in large gardens and parks. This species prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade and is adaptable to a range of soil types, provided they have good drainage. While it is relatively low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to pests such as caterpillars and diseases like powdery mildew. Gardeners should also be aware that the tree’s acorns can be prolific, potentially leading to unwanted seedlings if not managed.CC BY-SA 4.0