Also known as Evergreen Oak · Holly Oak · אלון הגלעין
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Quercus ilex, the Holm Oak, is a large evergreen tree native to the Mediterranean. It features dark green, leathery leaves and produces acorns. It is drought-tolerant and
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to partial shade.
80% intensity
Drought-tolerant once established, regular for young trees.
40% intensity
Well-drained, adaptable to various soil types, including poor, stony, or calcareous soils.
50% intensity
Hardy, tolerant of heat and mild frosts.
70% intensity
Outdoor
50% intensity
Rarely needed for established trees, light for young.
20% intensity
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
All parts of the plant, especially the acorns, contain tannins which are toxic if ingested in large quantities. Symptoms in animals can include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and kidney damage. In humans, raw acorns can cause gastrointestinal upset.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Young Holm Oaks require regular watering during their first few years to establish a strong root system, especially during dry periods.
Once mature, they are highly drought-tolerant and generally do not need supplemental irrigation, thriving on natural rainfall in Mediterranean climates. Avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot.
Pruning is generally minimal for mature Holm Oaks, focusing on removing dead, diseased, or crossing branches to maintain tree health and structure.
Young trees can be lightly pruned to shape them and encourage a strong central leader. Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins, or in late summer after flowering.
Holm Oaks can be propagated from seeds (acorns) collected in autumn. Acorns require stratification before germination.
They can also be propagated by grafting or by semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer, though cuttings can be more challenging to root successfully. Ensure good drainage and warmth for successful propagation.
Repotting is not applicable for mature Holm Oaks as they are large trees planted in the ground.
For young trees grown in containers, repotting into a larger pot may be necessary every 2-3 years until they are ready for permanent planting.
Use a well-draining potting mix and ensure the new pot provides ample space for root growth.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Holm Oak (Quercus ilex)
Where Holm Oak (Quercus ilex) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fagales |
| Family | Fagaceae |
| Genus | Quercus |
| Species | Quercus ilex |
Similar in genus Quercus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
