Castanopsis hystrix
Castanopsis hystrixfam. Fagaceae
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Pl. D9D6 — Castanopsis hystrix
Castanopsis hystrixCastanopsis hystrixCastanopsis hystrixCastanopsis hystrixCastanopsis hystrixCastanopsis hystrixCastanopsis hystrixCastanopsis hystrixCastanopsis hystrixCastanopsis hystrixCastanopsis hystrixCastanopsis hystrixCastanopsis hystrixCastanopsis hystrix
IOverview
Overview
Castanopsis hystrix, commonly known as the mountain oak or Taiwan evergreen oak, is a medium to heavy soil grower found in the forests of Assam, Bangladesh, China South-Central and Southeast regions, East Himalaya, Myanmar, Nepal, Taiwan, Thailand, Tibet, and Vietnam. This tree thrives in partial sun to shade, requiring moist conditions and reaching heights of 30 meters. Known for its edible flowers and seeds, it is both ornamental and useful as a food source in its native range. One distinctive feature of this plant is its ability to adapt to various habitats across a wide geographical area, making it a valuable species in diverse ecosystems.
Quick answers
What is Castanopsis hystrix?
Castanopsis hystrix, commonly known as the mountain oak or Taiwan evergreen oak, is a medium to heavy soil grower found in the forests of Assam, Bangladesh, China South-Central and Southeast regions, East Himalaya, Myanmar, Nepal, Taiwan, Thailand, Tibet, and Vietnam.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Castanopsis hystrix thrives in partial sun to shade and prefers moist, medium to heavy clay soils. It grows up to 30 meters tall and is native to regions including Assam, Bangladesh, China South-Central, China Southeast, East Himalaya, Myanmar, Nepal, Taiwan, Thailand, Tibet, and Vietnam. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently moist and provide partial shade for best growth. Propagation can be achieved through seed.
Light
Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Medium, Heavy (clay)
Mature size
30.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Castanopsis hystrix for the first time
7steps
Start with planting Skip in a suitable location and basic care, as it thrives in partial sun and moist soil.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Skip tree or seedling, well-draining potting mix, and a container if planting in a pot.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Skip during the spring when temperatures are mild and there's no risk of frost.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining with medium or heavy texture. Mix in some organic matter if planting in a pot.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant Skip from its nursery pot to your garden bed, ensuring it has enough space to grow.
- 5
First two weeks
Water the tree regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for any signs of stress.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide partial sun and regular watering, especially during dry spells. Prune lightly in late winter or early spring.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Skip is primarily grown for its ornamental value rather than harvesting. Focus on maintaining the tree's shape through light pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersSeed
Edible uses: The flowers and seeds of Castanopsis hystrix are edible. The flowers can be eaten raw or cooked, while the seeds are typically roasted or ground into flour for use in various dishes.
Other uses:LumberFragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
11 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
11 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 11 native
Asia8 regions
native (8)BangladeshChinaIndiaMyanmarNepalTaiwanThailandVietnam
Broader regions
native:East Himalaya
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Fagaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Fagaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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