- Wildlife
- Trees and shrubs
- Holm Oak
Chris Guise
About
Introduced from the Mediterranean in the 16th century, Holm Oak is a tall, evergreen tree that is widely planted. Like our native oaks, it produces acorns (on short stalks) which are dispersed by wildlife. It often survives by the coast, tolerating salt-spray from the sea, but is prone to die or lose its leaves during severe frosts. For this reason, it's more common in the south.
How to identify
Holm Oak is an evergreen oak with dark, glossy leaves that are oval and concave in shape, and often spiny on younger trees or new shoots.
Where to find it
Widely planted, particularly near the coast and in parkland, but also self-seeding in southern and central areas.
Habitats
When to find it
- January
- February
- March
- April
- May
- June
- July
- August
- September
- October
- Novermber
- December
- January
- February
- March
- April
- May
- June
- July
- August
- September
How can people help
Although Holm Oak is not a native tree, it provides an important link in the food chain for many animals, as well as a place for shelter and nesting. The Wildlife Trusts recognise the importance of healthy habitats to support all kinds of species throughout the food chain, so look after many nature reserves for the benefit of wildlife. You can help too: volunteer for your local Wildlife Trust and you could be involved in everything from coppicing to craft-making, stockwatching to surveying.