Quercus pubescens
Typical cork oak of the dry Mediterranean. Very important for local wildlife.
The downy oak is a full-sun tree that needs between 6 and 12 hours of direct sunlight per day; always plant it outdoors in a spacious area, as it can reach up to 20 metres in height and 15 metres in width. Watering should be minimal once established, relying on natural rainfall, as it is well adapted to dry Mediterranean climates. It is highly frost-resistant, tolerating temperatures down to -20 °C, so no winter protection is needed. Plant it preferably in autumn in well-drained, loamy or calcareous soil, and bear in mind that its parts may cause mild toxicity if ingested.