Quercus canariensis, Algerian oak

One of the best oaks for southern Australia, especially if winter wind breaking is required, as in most districts about half the leaves remain on the tree with decent autumn colour, until spring leaves shoot out. This species is somewhat columnar when young then broadening out as it ages.

It comes from east and south Spain and in the Atlas mountains and coastal areas of North Africa up to about 1000m on calcareous, heavy soils, but is tolerant of most soil types, especially clays. However, in Australia is grows most satisfactorily in sands in southern Victoria and tight clays in the SE tablelands of the continent.

Leaves are up to 15cm long by 5cm wide with small lobes or rounded teeth on the margins and silver blue colour underneath. Grows best with rainfall around 650mm, but will withstand drought well once established.

This tree’s bark is black and fissured, especially with age.

When mature forms a majestic tree up to 30m tall on better sites.

Tree shape

Spreading and rounded

Mature size

Giant 20m+

Growth rate

Moderate-fast

Use

Shade, timber, carbon store, firewood, ornamental

Soil type

All soils, good in heavy clays and calcareous soils

Water

Moderate to drought hardy

Foliage

Oboval with shallow lobes or small teeth on the margins

Origin

SW Europe and North Africa