Cork Oak - Quercus suber

Cork Oak (Quercus suber) is a beautiful evergreen oak tree that is native to southwestern Europe and Northwestern Africa. Cork oaks can make a majestic specimon 75+ feet tall and wide, or can grow smaller in challenging or crowded forest conditions. Grows a thick outer bark that is harvested every 9 to 12 years for wine corks and other uses. Takes about 25 years for first harvest, but can be taken again about 12 times in the trees 150 to 250 year life span. Tough drought resistant trees are said to be an important soil builder in its native ecosystems and an important source of food for wildlife. Produces 1 inch long acorns that are edible after water leaching the meal. Hardy zones 7-11.