Evergreen Cork Oak
A Comprehensive Gluttonous Gardener Plant Care Guide
The evergreen cork oak displays all the magnificence of the familiar British oak, whilst remaining beautifully leafy all year round. Of Mediterranean origin, the majestic canopy, leathery evergreen leaves and exceptional gnarled trunk of this striking tree means it has often been described as a cross between an oak and an olive. The wonderfully knobbly, peeling bark is also much prized and brings a well-established look to even the youngest of gardens
What sets this evergreen tree apart is its ability to produce a sustainable harvest of cork bark every 9 to 12 years. It’s thought that the trees developed this renewable layer as a way of protecting themselves against wild fires. Cork oaks are ready for their first harvesting after 25 years, and can be harvested up to 12 times in their lifetime. This renewable resource helps to support livelihoods in cork-producing regions.
Beyond its practical uses, the cork oak also boasts an eco-friendly superpower, as it absorbs large amounts of carbon dioxide. In the garden, your cork oak will become a friend all year-round, providing cool shade in the summer under its handsome leaf canopy, and welcome colour and texture during the barren winter months. Its resilience to unpredictable climates and low-maintenance nature make it an ideal companion for eco-conscious gardeners.
In a nutshell
Evergreen
Tree
Sunny garden
Hardy
Care Instructions
Planting
Despite its Mediterranean origins the cork oak is surprisingly hardy. It can tolerate low temperatures, although prolonged periods of freezing temperatures, exceptionally cold winds or heavy snow may cause damage, so protection to the base is recommended in this case. The tree is slow growing, drought tolerant and undemanding, and grows best in places with cold, moist winters and hot summers. In the autumn, the tree produces attractive acorns which are an appealing food source for many birds and small mammals.
Remove the coir circle from around the base of the plant. Dig a wide hole a little deeper and three times wider than the height of the root ball. Loosen the surrounding soil to allow for new roots to expand. Ensure that the tree is straight, and then refill the hole gently but firmly before giving the new tree a good drink.
Whilst it will be happy in most soils, it’s important to ensure adequate drainage. For the first few seasons, provide support with a sturdy cane to encourage strong growth and prevent wind damage.
Watering
It is important to ensure that the young tree does not dry out, especially in the first few seasons. Our cork oak trees can be planted all year round, but if you are planting in the spring or summer, water especially well in the first few months and more frequently if the weather is particularly hot or dry.
Feeding
In early spring, encourage growth by providing your cork oak with a good quality mulch or nitrogen-rich fertiliser.
Pruning
Prune your cork oak during the dormant season in late winter or early spring to enhance its form and maintain overall health. When making cuts, use clean, sharp tools, and make incisions just above a bud or lateral branch.
Start by removing any dead or damaged branches, allowing the tree to direct energy towards healthy growth. As the cork oak’s canopy naturally forms an umbrella-like shape, prune with an eye to maintaining this iconic silhouette and pay attention to lower branches. Avoid excessive pruning, as the tree’s unique beauty lies in its well-balanced, asymmetrical structure.
