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Quercus ilex

Holly Oak

Plant photo of: Quercus ilex
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Information by: Plant Nerd and SelecTree        Photographer: Normans/Steve Jacobs

 

Description

Holly Oak (Quercus ilex) is a Mediterranean native tree that is evergreen and reaches a height and width of 60’. Its natural shape is symmetrical and round, and the canopy is very dense. This tree would be a great choice in large, California-friendly gardens that have space for it to reach its mature size. It can be used for large-scale screening for both privacy and windbreaks. If this tree is planted in a garden that does not have the space to support it, it will require frequent pruning from a licensed arborist to maintain an appropriate size and shape. However, if it is given the space it needs to reach maturity, it will require almost no maintenance. This tree should be planted at least 10 feet away from any hardscape areas, 20 feet from structures such as houses and buildings, and not near any powerlines. Shrubs and perennials should be planted about six feet away from this tree. It should be irrigated for about 30 minutes, twice a week, when using most in-line drip irrigation systems.

 

Plant Type

Tree

Height Range

40-60', 60-100'

Flower Color

n/a

Flower Season

n/a

Leaf Color

Dark Green

Bark Color

Green, Grey

Fruit Color

Brown

Fruit Season

Winter, Summer

Leaf Season

Evergreen

Sun

Full

Water

Low, Medium

Growth Rate

Moderate

Soil Type

Clay, Loam, Rocky

Soil Condition

Average

Soil pH

Neutral

Adverse Factors

Allergenic, Messy, Poisonous

Design Styles

Mediterranean, Ranch, Seascape, Spanish, Woodland

Accenting Features

Specimen

Seasonal Interest

Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall

Location Uses

Background, Lawn, Park, Street Tree

Special Uses

Hedge, Screen, Wind Break, Shade Tree

Attracts Wildlife

Birds, Wildlife

Water Saving Tip:

Water between sunset and sunrise when temperatures and wind are the lowest.