Sessile oak (Quercus petraea)

Also known as: Durmast oak, Chestnut oak

The sessile oak (Quercus petraea), native to Europe and widespread in the British Isles, is Ireland's national tree. Its name reflects its distinctive acorns, which grow directly on the branches without stems. This tree supports a variety of wildlife, including being a preferred food source for the caterpillars of purple hairstreak butterflies.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Sessile oak

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Tree

Plant Height

20 m to 40 m

Spread

25 m

Leaf Color

Green Orange Brown

Flower Size

5 cm to 8 cm

Flower Color

Yellow Green

Images of Sessile oak

Quickly Identify Sessile oak

Broad, rounded crown with a dense canopy.

Acorns grow stalkless in clusters.

Leaves with glossy upper surface, pubescent underside, and rounded lobes.

Grey-brown stem with tawny lenticels, thickening towards base.

Deeply fissured, rugged bark ranging from light to dark gray.

Scientific Classification of Sessile oak

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Fagales

Family

Beech

Genus

Oaks

Species

Sessile oak

Planting and Growing of Sessile oak

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

50-77℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Sessile oak?

For Quercus petraea, water thoroughly but do not over-saturate the soil. Aim for about 500 milliliters each time, considering factors like soil type and climate. Ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged, as oaks prefer moderately moist conditions.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Sessile oak? ›

What should I do if my Sessile oak is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Sessile oak? ›

How to save an overwatered Sessile oak? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Sessile oak?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Quercus petraea flourishes in full sun to partial sun environments. Ideal lighting supports robust growth, ensuring vitality and strengthening disease resistance.

What is the best type of sunlight for Quercus petraea? ›

How can you ensure Quercus petraea gets optimal light conditions? ›

What benefits does ideal light offer Quercus petraea? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Sessile oak?

Ideal Temperature: 50 ~ 77℉

For optimal growth, Quercus petraea thrives in temperatures ranging from 50°F to 77°F. These conditions closely mimic their natural habitat, promoting healthy development and strong root systems. It's essential to maintain this range to avoid stress and ensure bountiful growth.

What Soil is Best for Sessile oak?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam, Calcareous soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Quercus petraea thrives best in well-drained soils where excess water can quickly disperse. This feature helps prevent root rot, ensuring robust growth and longevity for the tree. A soil composition rich in nutrients bolsters the growth of Quercus petraea, encouraging a dense canopy and vibrant foliage. High nutrient levels support its metabolic processes, contributing to its overall health. The soil should retain enough moisture to sustain the tree during dry spells without becoming waterlogged. This balance prevents stress during periods of drought, enhancing its survival and performance.

How to Fertilize Sessile oak?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

When fertilizing Quercus petraea (Sessile Oak), it's crucial to use a balanced approach. Use approximately one pound of a balanced 10-10-10 NPK fertilizer per year of age of the tree, up to ten pounds for mature trees. Always follow manufacturer directions, as over-fertilization can harm the tree and surrounding flora.

How to Prune Sessile oak?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Begin by identifying branches that are dead, diseased, or broken. These should be removed first to clear the way and improve airflow and sunlight penetration in the canopy. For optimal results, make cuts just outside the branch collar and avoid leaving stubs. This encourages quicker healing and reduces the risk of disease entry. Thinning the canopy allows more light and air through the tree, promoting health. Remove some of the smaller branches from crowded areas to improve air circulation and reduce pest issues. After removing necessary branches, shape the tree by trimming any overgrown areas to maintain a balanced structure. This helps in preserving its natural form while also managing the size according to your landscape needs.

How to Propagate Sessile oak plant?

Propagate Time: Early spring, Late autumn

Collect mature acorns in the autumn, ensuring they are free of damage and pests. Acorns should be stratified by storing them in a moist medium at a cool temperature to simulate winter conditions and break dormancy before sowing.

Once stratified, sow the acorns in seed trays filled with a well-draining soil mix. Bury them at a depth of their size, water lightly, and maintain the soil moisture. Position the trays in a location with indirect sunlight.

For grafting, select healthy rootstock and scion wood pieces of the same species. Make precise cuts using a grafting knife, then align and bind them together using a grafting tape. Ensure thorough contact between cambium layers for a successful union.

How to Repot Sessile oak plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Detect the need for repotting by observing roots protruding from the drainage holes. Additionally, if water doesn't absorb as readily or the plant's growth slows significantly, it may indicate a need for a bigger space.

Select a pot that is approximately 2 inches wider than the current one to give roots space to grow. Ensure it has proper drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can suffocate oak roots and hinder development.

Opt for well-draining loamy soil, as it retains essential moisture while ensuring proper drainage. This balanced mix aids in delivering necessary nutrients while preventing harmful root rot.

Toxicity of Sessile oak

Is Sessile oak toxic to cat?

The sessile oak presents a mild toxic risk to felines. Cats may accidentally consume various parts of this plant, resulting in potential poisoning. Given that all parts of the sessile oak contain toxins, it is essential for owners to remain watchful to deter their cats from nibbling on any section. If a cat ingests any part of the sessile oak, it may exhibit general signs of physical distress, which could worsen if immediate veterinary intervention is not sought. Should ingestion be suspected, it is vital for pet owners to promptly seek medical assistance at a veterinary clinic to safeguard their cat's health and well-being.

Is Sessile oak toxic to dog?

The sessile oak is regarded as exhibiting a mild toxic effect on dogs. If canines inadvertently consume parts of this plant, they may be at risk of poisoning. While the exact toxic components are not specified, dog owners should be aware that every part of the plant presents a potential hazard. Should ingestion take place, signs of toxicity may arise, including gastrointestinal distress, lethargy, or potentially more severe health issues proportional to the quantity consumed. In any instance of suspected poisoning, it is vital for the dog to seek immediate veterinary attention to safeguard their health.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.