English oak(Quercus robur)

English oak (Quercus robur)

Also known as: Pedunculate oak

The English oak (*Quercus robur*) is a deciduous tree indigenous to Europe, known for its impressive lifespan, with some trees living over a thousand years. In European mythologies, it symbolizes strength, longevity, nobility, morale, and wisdom.

Attributes of English oak

Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Tree
Plant Height
10 m to 50 m
Spread
30 m
Leaf Color
Green Brown Yellow
Flower Size
5 cm to 8 cm
Flower Color
Green Yellow

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Images of English oak

English oak(Quercus robur)
English oak(Quercus robur)
English oak(Quercus robur)

Quickly Identify English oak

1
Deeply lobed dark green leaves with ear-like lobes at base, 3-7 pairs.
2
Yellow-green catkins and 1-inch-long oval acorns on 1-3 inch stalks.
3
Distinct male and female flowers blooming simultaneously in spring, yellowish-green.
4
Smooth, yellow-brown stem with stout, flexible twigs and angled brown buds.
5
Robust trunk with grayish-brown to black bark, deep fissures with rugged texture.

Scientific Classification of English oak

Phylum
Vascular plants
Class
Dicotyledons
Order
Beeches, walnuts, and allied trees
Family
Beech
Genus
Oaks
Species
English oak

Planting and Growing of English oak

Care Difficulty
Easy
Watering Schedule
Every 3 days
Sunlight Requirements
Full sun
Sunshine Duration
4-8 hours
Ideal Temperature
60-75℉
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

water icon How to Water English oak?

Quercus robur, commonly known as the English oak, thrives with consistent but not excessive watering. Ideally, when watering, make sure the water soaks deep into the ground without causing any pooling or prolonged wetness around the roots. This typically translates to providing about 1500 ml of water per session.
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sunlight icon What Are the Sunlight Requirements for English oak?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun
Duration of light: Six to eight hours
Prefers full sun to partial sun, offering six to eight hours of light. This lighting promotes lush growth and disease resistance, enhancing structural strength and appearance.
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temperature icon What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for English oak?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉
Quercus robur thrives best in temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F. This range provides the ideal environment for photosynthesis and nutrient uptake, allowing the tree to grow healthily and robustly. Maintaining this temperature ensures optimal metabolic processes.

soil icon What Soil is Best for English oak?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam, Clay soil
Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5
Quercus robur, commonly known as the English oak, thrives best in nutrient-rich soil. This ensures robust growth and a strong root system, providing a solid foundation for the tree and enhancing its overall health and lifespan. The oak prefers well-drained soil to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Adequate drainage allows the roots to breathe and absorb essential nutrients efficiently. While drainage is vital, maintaining a certain level of soil moisture is beneficial for the tree. Consistent soil moisture relieves stress and supports sustained growth, especially during dry periods. More About Soil

fertilize icon How to Fertilize English oak?

Fertilizer type: Balanced
For Quercus robur, the recommended fertilizer amount depends on soil conditions and tree size. Generally, aim for 113 to 226 grams of nitrogen per 2.5 cm of trunk diameter, applied evenly around the root zone. More About Fertilizing Techniques

prune icon How to Prune English oak?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Before you start pruning, take time to assess the tree's structure. Identify dead, diseased, or crossed branches that need removal to improve the overall health and shape. Make cuts at a slight angle, above the branch collar, without leaving stubs. This ensures natural healing and reduces the risk of infection. Focus on removing any weak or spindly growth that cannot support itself. This reduces competition for resources and encourages stronger branch development. More About Pruning Techniques

propagate icon How to Propagate English oak plant?

Propagate Time: Spring,Early spring,Late spring
1
Select mature acorns from established Quercus robur trees. Ensure the acorns are free from damage and signs of disease, as healthy seeds will lead to better germination rates.
2
Prepare a well-draining soil mix, rich in organic matter, for both seed and cutting propagation. Ensure soils retain moisture but do not remain waterlogged, as this can substantially affect seed germination and root health.
3
Opt for compatible rootstocks for grafting and use precise cuts to ensure good contact between graft and rootstock. Secure the graft with tape and maintain consistent moisture to enhance successful graft union formation.
More About Propagating Techniques

repot icon How to Repot English oak plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 3-5 years
1
Quercus robur may signal the need for repotting when roots start to grow out of the drainage holes, or the growth appears stunted. Ideally, repot during the active growing seasons of spring or autumn to minimize stress and allow the plant to recover quickly.
2
Select a pot that is 2-3 inches larger in diameter than the current one to allow space for root growth. It should have ample drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Opting for a breathable material like terracotta can also aid in moisture control.
3
A loamy, well-drained soil mix is ideal as it provides good support and aeration for the roots while retaining enough moisture. This balance is crucial for the plant's stability and nutrient uptake, minimizing issues like root rot or nutrient deficiencies.

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Toxicity of English oak

Is English oak toxic to humans?

The English oak possesses toxic characteristics that can trigger adverse reactions in humans if consumed, similar to other species within the *Quercus* or oak genus. Generally, these plants cause mild symptoms in individuals who ingest the young leaves during spring and acorns in the autumn. Symptoms from consuming these parts include stomach pain, constipation, diarrhea, intense thirst, and frequent urination. These trees are commonly used for ornamentation in parks and gardens and may be readily accessible to children, who could unknowingly collect and eat the fallen leaves or acorns, completely unaware of their toxic nature.

Is English oak toxic to cat?

The English oak possesses a low degree of toxicity for cats, potentially resulting in poisoning if they consume a significant quantity of its leaves or seeds. During the fall season, when the seeds are plentiful, cats may come into contact with these parts, which could cause them to experience physical distress or sickness. Should a cat show symptoms of poisoning, like alterations in behavior or health, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention at a veterinary clinic to address the situation effectively and safeguard the cat's health.

Is English oak toxic to dog?

The English oak presents a slight toxicity concern for dogs. If canines consume large quantities of its leaves or acorns, they may experience poisoning. Poisoning symptoms can manifest as gastrointestinal disturbances, including vomiting and diarrhea, as well as possible lethargy and decreased appetite. Should you suspect that your dog has eaten any parts of the English oak, it is crucial to obtain prompt veterinary assistance to safeguard your pet's health and wellness.

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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.
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