Holly Oak
Quercus ilexfam. Fagaceae
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Pl. 72A6 — Quercus ilex
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IOverview
Overview
Holly Oak (Quercus ilex) is a deciduous tree native to the subtropical and tropical regions of Asia, including Assam, China South-Central, China Southeast, Hainan, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam. Known for its ornamental value and as an edible source, this tree thrives in full sun to partial shade with moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 4-10 and can grow up to 25 meters tall. Holly Oak has been used both medicinally and as a food source, making it a versatile plant in its native range.
Quick answers
What is Holly Oak?
Holly Oak (Quercus ilex) is a deciduous tree native to the subtropical and tropical regions of Asia, including Assam, China South-Central, China Southeast, Hainan, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Energizing Blend
focustincture
Traditionally used to enhance mental clarity and focus.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Holly Oak (Quercus ilex) thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in temperate regions from zones 4-10. For propagation, seeds are the preferred method. This evergreen tree can grow up to 25 meters tall and is native to areas including Assam, China South-Central, China Southeast, Hainan, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-10
Mature size
25.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Holly Oak for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Holly Oak in a sunny spot and follow these steps for success.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or young saplings, potting mix if container growing.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant seeds in spring or fall when the weather is mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5, ensuring it's light, medium, or heavy as needed.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the ground or start them indoors and transplant young saplings.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun, regular watering, especially during dry spells, and occasional pruning for shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to maintain shape and remove dead branches. Holly Oak is not typically harvested for food.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil without drainage, neglecting sun exposure.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Seed
Edible uses: Oil, Coffee
Other uses:Animal feedFire starterHedgerowoilWind breakerTanninLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
26 native · 4 introduced
Distribution
26 native · 4 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 26 native· 4 introduced
Europe10 regions
native (7)AlbaniaFranceGreeceItalyPortugalSpainSwitzerland
introduced (3)CyprusUkraineUnited Kingdom
Asia7 regions
native (7)ChinaIndiaLaosMyanmarThailandTurkeyVietnam
Africa2 regions
native (2)AlgeriaTunisia
Broader regions
native:Hainan, Czechoslovakia, East Aegean Is., Kriti, Yugoslavia
introduced:New Zealand North
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
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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