Cork Oak — Growing reference
| Scientific name | Quercus suber |
|---|---|
| Seed germination (days) | 14–30 |
| Soil temperature for germination (°C) | 10–20 |
| First harvest or flowering (days) | 1095–2190 |
| Measured from | Seed |
| Plant spacing (cm) | 609.6–1219.2 |
| Mature height (cm) | 609.6–1219.2 |
| Mature spread (cm) | 609.6–1219.2 |
| USDA hardiness zones | 7–10 |
| Light | Full sun |
| Water | Low |
| Sowing method | Direct sow |
Growing directions
Plant acorns in fall in very well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral, dry to average, rocky or sandy soil in full sun; cork oak is the source of virtually all wine and champagne cork in the world — the extraordinarily thick, spongy, deeply furrowed outer bark is harvested every 9–12 years from mature trees (a process called 'cork stripping') that does not harm the tree, as the bark regenerates completely. Portugal and Spain produce about 80% of the world's cork. The tree is an evergreen with a broad, spreading canopy and small, evergreen, slightly holly-like leaves. First cork harvest is typically at age 25 years; subsequent harvests every 9–12 years for the remaining 150–200 years of the tree's life. In California, cork oaks have been grown for over a century as ornamentals and heritage trees, thriving in the Mediterranean climate. An interesting tree with historical and economic significance for home gardeners in zones 7–10.
Source and local conditions
Typical planning ranges from OpenPlantDB (CC0). Cultivar, climate, season and growing method can change these values. Confirm the seed label and local guidance before planting.
Source & verification
OpenPlantDB · CC0