Holm Oak
Quercus ilex ballota
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Pl. C97D — Quercus ilex ballota
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IOverview
Overview
Holm Oak (Quercus ilex ballota) is a deciduous tree native to the Mediterranean region, including Algeria, France, Morocco, Portugal, and Spain. Known for its light requirement of full sun to partial shade and its adaptability to various soil types—ranging from light sandy to heavy clay—the holm oak can thrive in moist conditions. It grows up to 25 meters tall and is valued not only for its ornamental beauty but also for its edible parts, specifically the acorns, which are used in culinary applications. One distinctive feature of this tree is its ability to grow in a variety of environments, making it a versatile addition to gardens and landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Holm Oak?
Holm Oak (Quercus ilex ballota) is a deciduous tree native to the Mediterranean region, including Algeria, France, Morocco, Portugal, and Spain.
What is Holm Oak used for?
Traditionally used for immune support. Each claim is evidence-rated — see Section II for full citations.
Best for
Top 1 evidence-ranked use of Holm Oak
Clinicaluses · safety · chemistry · dosagemedicinal profile
IIBenefits & evidence
1 claim · 0 sources
Benefits & evidence
1 claim · 0 sources- Holm Oak has been traditionally used in European herbal medicine to support immune function, often prepared as a decoction. Its use is based on the presence of bioactive compounds that may help modulate inflammatory responses.
Quercetin and other flavonoids found in Holm Oak have anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes such as COX-2 and LOX, which are involved in immune response modulation.
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.
Holm Oak support blend
generaltea
AI returned a direct ingredient list; normalized into one draft blend for editorial review.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Holm Oak (Quercus ilex ballota) thrives in full to partial sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 6-9 and can grow up to 25 meters tall. For propagation, seeds are the recommended method. Ensure the oak receives adequate water, especially during dry periods, as it prefers moist conditions.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
6-9
Mature size
25.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Holm Oak for the first time
7steps
Start with a young Holm Oak sapling for your beginner garden.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Holm Oak sapling, well-draining soil, and a large container or planting space.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the weather starts warming up.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining with a mix of light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) textures. For containers, use a pot at least 1 meter wide and deep.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant the sapling carefully, ensuring not to damage the roots during the process.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for any signs of stress or pests.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun to partial shade, and continue regular watering as needed. Prune lightly in late winter to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune the tree annually in late winter to remove dead branches and promote healthy growth.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Seed
Edible uses: Oil, Coffee
Other uses:Fire starterHedgerowoilWind breakerTanninLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
5 native · 2 introduced
Distribution
5 native · 2 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 5 native· 2 introduced
Europe5 regions
native (3)FrancePortugalSpain
introduced (2)PortugalSpain
Africa2 regions
native (2)AlgeriaMorocco
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, common use cases, and growing requirements.
shared use cases
Different families, similar therapeutic role — good for comparing.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Health goals
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
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