Holly Oak Tree – Holm Oak Tree
A truly stunning evergreen oak, the Holly Oak (Holm Oak) is an icon of the Mediterranean and quickly gaining popularity as a valuable climate adapted tree here in the Pacific Northwest. The Holly Oak is named for its leaves that resemble holl but on a much more attractive tree in our opinion. One of the hardiest evergreen oaks, this long lived tree will eventually become a very large spreading specimen that casts deep shade. Some thinning of the canopy makes for a nicer open look, but otherwise it’s a very low to no maintenance oak tree. Deserves to be much more widely planted on the West Coast.
Latin Name: Quercus ilex
Site and Soil: Cork Oaks like 1/2 day to full sun and well-drained soil.
Pollination Requirements: Self-fertile. Will freely hybridize with other Quercus species planted nearby
Hardiness: Holly Oak Tree is hardy to 0º F.
Bearing Age: 4-5 years after planting.
Size at Maturity: 70-100 ft.
Bloom Time: June
Ripening Time: October
Yield: 100+ lbs.
Pests & Diseases: Sudden Oak Death can be an issue for Quercus species in Southwest Oregon and California but so far we have not seen it affecting oaks in the Portland Metro area
USDA Zone: 7