Lithocarpus corneus

Lithocarpus corneus, commonly known as Chinese laurel or Taiwan chestnut oak, is a medium-sized tree native to the forests of China South-Central, Southeast China, Hainan, Laos, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam. This tree thrives in moist environments with light to partial sun exposure and prefers well-drained soil that can be either sandy, loamy, or clayey. Reaching a height of 15 meters, Lithocarpus corneus is valued for its edible seeds, which are used both as food and in traditional medicine. The seeds can be eaten raw or roasted and are often dried to enhance their flavor and texture. Its adaptability makes it an ornamental choice in gardens where similar conditions prevail. Given its natural habitat in temperate regions, it should adapt well to similar conditions but may require protection from extreme cold.