Sweet Acorn Oak
Quercus rotundifolia
Also listed as Quercus ballota, Quercus calicina
Also known as Holm Oak, Fodder Oak, Ballota Oak
Climate Match for your location
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A Mediterranean evergreen oak with rounded, leathery foliage and a dense canopy. Extremely drought-tolerant once established and suited to hot, dry climates.
Why grow it
Quercus rotundifolia offers reliable performance in Mediterranean and semi-arid climates where many deciduous oaks struggle. Compared to other drought-tolerant oak species, it establishes relatively quickly once root systems are developed and provides year-round foliage and wildlife habitat. Its dense canopy and moderate growth rate make it useful for windbreaks and erosion control in hot, dry regions.
Watch out for
Establishment requires consistent water during the first 1-2 growing seasons despite the plant's eventual drought tolerance. Young trees benefit from protection against frost damage in colder microclimates near the northern limits of its range. Growth can be slow during early years, which may require patience before the plant reaches functional size in the landscape. Acorns eaten in large amounts can make dogs and cats sick.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Fagaceae
Native Range
Mediterranean (Spain, Portugal, North Africa)
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Years to Bearing
- Propagation
A Mediterranean evergreen oak with rounded, leathery foliage and a dense canopy. Extremely drought-tolerant once established and suited to hot, dry climates.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Sweet Acorn Oak grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Quercus rotundifolia offers reliable performance in Mediterranean and semi-arid climates where many deciduous oaks struggle. Compared to other drought-tolerant oak species, it establishes relatively quickly once root systems are developed and provides year-round foliage and wildlife habitat. Its dense canopy and moderate growth rate make it useful for windbreaks and erosion control in hot, dry regions.
Watch out for
Establishment requires consistent water during the first 1-2 growing seasons despite the plant's eventual drought tolerance. Young trees benefit from protection against frost damage in colder microclimates near the northern limits of its range. Growth can be slow during early years, which may require patience before the plant reaches functional size in the landscape. Acorns eaten in large amounts can make dogs and cats sick.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Fagaceae
Native Range
Mediterranean (Spain, Portugal, North Africa)
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Years to Bearing
- Propagation
Similar canopy trees you might consider:
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