Quercus suber Seeds | Cork Oak
LATIN NAME: Quercus suber
COMMON NAME: Cork Oak, Suber Oak
Plant Profile
Cork Oak (Quercus suber) grows as a medium-sized, evergreen tree in the beech family, native to Mediterranean regions of the Europe and the north Africa, while it has been cultivated for its cork for thousands of years. Mature plants top out at about Twenty metres. During flowering it gives bees and other insects a dependable food source. For the small amount of care it requires, the return is remarkable.
Science & Biotechnology
The species features in the wider study of the beech family, and its traits make it a useful subject for work on germination biology, cultivation and ornamental selection. Cork oak has a real and distinguished place in research. Modern propagation practice has made this species straightforward to raise by ordinary good methods.
Uses & Benefits
Cork Oak works well in borders, containers and dedicated beds. Cork oak is a medium-sized, evergreen tree of the Mediterranean, bearing thick, corky bark and glossy, dark-green, spiny-toothed leaves. To raise cork oak, sow acorns in pots of moist, open soil in a sunny, warm place, keep them gently watered, and grow little trees on in the sun. Thereafter it wants only the ordinary attentions any garden plant receives.
Oaks are ecosystems and medicine at once: oak bark is an official European astringent for skin and throat gargles, acorns fed civilizations once leached of tannins, and each tree supports hundreds of caterpillar species that feed songbirds.
Growing from Seed
Starting Cork Oak from seed is simple and satisfying. Sow the seed evenly over the surface and cover lightly, using a loose, well-drained seed compost, and keep it just moist in bright light until the seedlings are well up. Once the seedlings have made true leaves, pot them on individually and plant out when they are sturdy and conditions are right.
Our Take
As a medium-sized, evergreen tree, it settles into a routine quickly once established. Give the seed freshness and steady moisture, and nature handles the rest.
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