Holm oak

Quercus ilex

Height 30 m, bole 1-2 m diameter. One of the hardiest evergreens. Young trees grow like a column, crown becoming domed. Bark is brown-black, smooth at first then cracking into small squares. Leaves shed in the summer of their second year. Usually oval or lance-shaped, 4-8 x 2-3 cm.

What habitats does it normally live in?

Mediterranean. Prefers dry woods, coastal cliffs.

What are its young like?

Flowers in early summer; male catkins yellow, 4-7 cm. Acorn 1.5-2 cm in clusters of 1-3.

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