Portuguese Oak (Quercus faginea)
The Portuguese oak, native to the western Mediterranean region, is a versatile deciduous or semi-evergreen tree. It typically grows 30 to 65 feet (9 to 20 meters) tall, with a trunk diameter reaching up to 6 feet (1.8 meters). Its leaves are lobed, dark green, and leathery, often retaining their foliage in mild winters. The tree produces small, inconspicuous flowers in spring and acorns that mature in autumn.
Adapted to varied habitats, the Portuguese oak thrives in rocky hillsides, valleys, and forested areas. It prefers well-drained soils and tolerates both drought and frost, making it a resilient species in its native range. This oak provides critical ecological benefits, including soil stabilization and habitat for wildlife. Its wood, valued for durability, is used in construction and fuel. The Portuguese oak also contributes to traditional agroforestry systems, often interplanted with crops or grazing areas.
Photo: Cristina Estima Ramalho
Scientific Classification of Portuguese Oak
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Clade | Angiosperms |
| Clade | Eudicots |
| Order | Fagales |
| Family | Fagaceae |
| Genus | Quercus |
| Scientific Name | Quercus faginea |
Photo: Carlos Aguiar
Quick Information
| Plant Type | Deciduous or semi-evergreen tree |
| Identification | Height: 30 to 65 feet (9 to 20 meters) Leaves: Lobed, dark green, leathery Stem: Thick, straight trunk with rough bark Flowers: Inconspicuous, yellow-green blooms in spring Roots: Deep and extensive root system Growth Habit: Upright, spreading canopy Crown: Rounded and dense |
| Distribution | Native to Portugal, Spain, and parts of North Africa |
| Habitat | Grows on rocky hillsides, forested valleys, and plains; tolerates poor soils |
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 7 through 10 |
| Growth Rate | Moderate; grows 12 to 24 inches (30 to 60 cm) annually |
| Lifespan | Long-lived; often exceeds 150 years |
| Growing Conditions | Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade Soil: Prefers well-drained, loamy, or rocky soils Water: Drought-tolerant but benefits from seasonal rainfall |
| Drought Tolerance | High; well-adapted to dry climates |
| Diseases | Susceptible to oak decline and fungal infections |
| Pests | Vulnerable to oak processionary moth and bark beetles |
| Reproductive System | Monoecious; produces acorns as seeds |
| Propagation | Through seeds and occasionally through grafting |
| Wildlife Value | Provides food and shelter for birds, mammals, and insects; acorns serve as a key food source |
| Uses | Timber, fuelwood, traditional agroforestry systems, and soil stabilization |
| IUCN Conservation Status | Least Concern |
Photo: Sergio Chozas