Young Holm Oak Tree | Quercus ilex

Leaf Color and Leaf Shape

The Quercus ilex, commonly known as the Holm oak, is a well-known tree with bright green leaves that seem to have a grayish hue.

The leaf of the Quercus ilex is elongated in shape, with a dark green color on the upper side and a light green color on the underside. This sometimes gives the impression that the leaves of the tree have a grayish color. The leaf is sharply toothed in its youth and will develop a smoother leaf edge as it matures.

Evergreen

The fresh green leaf is also evergreen, remaining on the Quercus ilex throughout the year. This is one of the tree's key features and the reason why it is commonly planted.

Flowering

In the months of April to May, the Quercus ilex, when mature, blooms with golden catkins, providing a beautiful contrast against the green foliage.

Acorns

Later, elongated round acorns appear, arranged in clusters of 1 to 3 and are edible.

Location

Originally from the Mediterranean region, the Quercus ilex prefers a sunny location in a nutrient-poor and not overly wet soil.

Frost-Sensitive

In its early years, the Holm oak can be sensitive to frost. It is advisable to plant this tree in a sheltered location or protect it from frost.

How to plant the tree?

1. Determine the final location of the tree and ensure it is free from cables, debris, old plants, and other obstacles that may hinder the tree's growth.
2. Dig a planting hole that is twice the width of the root ball. Loosen the soil at the bottom of the planting hole and mix the excavated soil with (organic) garden soil or planting substrate.
3. Adjust the planting hole to the height where the root ball fits and firmly press the soil.
4. Fill the planting hole with water and wait for it to settle. Check if the root ball is sufficiently moist.
5. Place the tree or plant in the planting hole. It is extremely important that the tree is not planted too deep, as this can cause root rot.
6. Insert a tree stake or bamboo stake firmly into the ground on the side of the tree where the most wind comes from.
7. Now, place the watering ring or create a mound of soil around the tree so that water can seep into the ground.

Why Choose a Young Tree from Amitis

• Easy to plant yourself due to the compact size and light weight
• Conveniently delivered to your home in a sturdy packaging
• Experience the growth and development of your own tree
• Easy to maintain
• Cultivate the size and growth form you are looking for
• Attain mature size within a short time
• Can be planted year-round as everything is delivered in pots
• No root loss and better chances of establishment as everything is pot-grown
• Cost-effective purchase
• Fresh, healthy plants directly from the grower

Questions?

Want to know more about pruning? Read our page on tree maintenance! Feel free to contact us; we are happy to assist!