Aleppo Oak
Quercus infectoria
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Description
The Aleppo Oak, Quercus infectoria, is a small to medium-sized deciduous tree native to the Mediterranean region and parts of Asia. It plays a crucial role in agroecological systems as a mid-canopy layer in food forests, providing shade and habitat for a variety of species. Its deep root system aids in soil stabilization and erosion control, making it valuable in regenerative agriculture. The tree's galls, induced by the gall wasp, are rich in tannins and have been used historically for dyeing, ink production, and traditional medicine. In guild design, Aleppo Oak can be paired with nitrogen-fixing shrubs like Elaeagnus species and ground covers such as clover to enhance soil fertility and biodiversity.
Growing Details
Aleppo Oak thrives in well-drained, rocky soils with full sun exposure. It is drought-tolerant and suitable for poor soil conditions. Before planting, prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter to improve fertility. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants like lavender and rosemary can deter pests and attract beneficial insects. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Harvest acorns in late autumn, ensuring they are fully mature. Store
Tags
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Fire Wood
Windbreak
Erosion Preventing
Visual Appeal
Colouring
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Quercus infectoria</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Mediterranean region, parts of Asia
applicable geo region: Mediterranean
language used: en
Flowering:
middle
of April for 30 days
Harvest:
middle
of September for 60 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of November
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(2/5)
edible uses: The acorns of the Aleppo Oak can be processed to remove tannins by leaching in water and then ground into flour or used as a coffee substitute. They are typically harvested in the fall and require proper drying and storage to prevent spoilage.
Medicinal Rating:
(4/5)
medicinal uses: The galls of the Aleppo Oak are traditionally used in medicine for their astringent properties, particularly in treating diarrhea and inflammation. They are also a source of tannic acid, which is used in various medicinal applications.
health concerns: Raw acorns contain tannins, which can be toxic if consumed in large quantities without proper processing. It is essential to leach acorns thoroughly before consumption.
other uses: The galls are used for dyeing fabrics and in the production of ink. The wood, although not highly durable, is used for fuel and charcoal.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Quercus infectoria
common names: Aleppo Oak; Gall Oak; Dyer's Oak
family: Fagaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Quercus
Growing Conditions
area needed: 10.0 m
spacing: 5.0 m
growing difficulty: Medium
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 25ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 5ยฐC / 35ยฐC
water demands: Low
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Deep
frost tender: Low
hardness:
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(7/10)
first harvest: 20 years
life span: 200 years
succession: Late
growth rate: Slow
max height: 10.0 m
max width: 8.0 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Monoecious
growth details: Aleppo Oak thrives in well-drained, rocky soils with full sun exposure. It is drought-tolerant and suitable for poor soil conditions. Before planting, prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter to improve fertility. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants like lavender and rosemary can deter pests and attract beneficial insects. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Harvest acorns in late autumn, ensuring they are fully mature. Store
Potential Disturbances: Gall wasps are common, but their galls are often harvested for tannins. Encourage natural predators like birds and parasitic wasps to manage pest populations. Planting aromatic herbs such as mint and basil nearby can help repel pests. Neem oil can be used as an organic spray for pest control.
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