Black ridge oak
Quercus phillyreoidesfam. Fagaceae
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Pl. 9446 — Quercus phillyreoides
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IOverview
Overview
Black ridge oak (Quercus phillyreoides) is a deciduous tree in the Fagaceae family, native to regions in China South-Central, Southeastern China, Japan, and the Nansei-shoto islands. This tree can grow up to 9 meters tall and thrives in moist, medium to heavy clay soil, requiring full or partial sun. It is hardy in USDA zones 6-9 and is known for its edible acorns, which can be used as a coffee substitute. The tree also has documented medicinal uses, particularly for tannin extraction. Black ridge oak is a notable presence in its native habitat, contributing both nutritionally and medicinally to local ecosystems. While the tree is generally safe, caution should be exercised when using any part of it for medicinal purposes, as individual reactions may vary.
Quick answers
What is Black ridge oak?
Black ridge oak (Quercus phillyreoides) is a deciduous tree in the Fagaceae family, native to regions in China South-Central, Southeastern China, Japan, and the Nansei-shoto islands. This tree can grow up to 9 meters tall and thrives in moist, medium to heavy clay soil, requiring full or partial sun.
IV·bMixology suggestions
2 drafts
Mixology suggestions
2 draftsEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Stress Relief
stresstincture
Historically used for calming effects.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Black ridge oak thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist, medium to heavy clay soil. It is hardy in zones 6-9 and can grow up to 9 meters tall. For cultivation, ensure the planting site has adequate moisture but avoid overwatering. Propagation can be done through seeds. Given its native habitat, it adapts well to temperate regions with similar conditions.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
6-9
Mature size
9.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Black ridge oak for the first time
8steps
Start with planting a Black ridge oak in a suitable location for a beginner gardener.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Black ridge oak sapling, well-draining soil, and a garden trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant the sapling in spring or early fall when temperatures are mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is moist and has good drainage. Amend heavy clay with organic matter if needed.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant the sapling in a hole twice as wide but not deeper than its root ball.
- 5
First two weeks
Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist. Monitor for signs of stress and adjust watering accordingly.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun or partial shade, water deeply once a week, and mulch around the base to retain moisture.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Focus on pruning young growth in late winter to maintain shape. Harvesting is not applicable for this species.
- 8
Common mistakes
Planting too deep, overwatering, and neglecting proper sunlight are common pitfalls.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Seed
Edible uses: Coffee
Other uses:Tannin
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
4 native · 1 introduced
Distribution
4 native · 1 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 4 native· 1 introduced
Asia3 regions
native (2)ChinaJapan
introduced (1)South Korea
Broader regions
native:Nansei-shoto
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
About this entry
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 944644f0-f50f-443e-a93c-edc5a56a0571
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