Quercus Ilex (Acorn)

This large spreading evergreen tree bears dark green leaves which are tough and leathery, with pale undersides. Finally becoming a large and impressive specimen, it is native to the Mediterranean region, although it grows well in almost all parts of the UK once established. The male flowers are catkins and the female flowers give rise to large seeds or "acorns", in a very similar way to the English Oak, Quercus robur. Seeds are rarely produced, and only in "Mast" years which occur with oaks only every five to ten years, hence their scarcity. It takes one of its common names from 'holm', an ancient name for holly (whose botanical name is Ilex).