Cork Oak Tree Facts

Cork oak has been an important economic and environmental factor in Europe and Africa for hundreds of years. In the United States, however, the tree is a quality landscaping tree due to its hardiness and striking appearance.

Relation to Commerical Cork

The cork used in wine bottles and bulletin boards come from the sponge-like bark of the cork oak.

Sustainability

Cork is considered a sustainable resource because the trees are not killed when the bark is harvested. It takes about ten years for the bark to regenerate and be ready for another harvest.

Native Climate

Cork oaks are native to the Mediterranean region of Europe and Northern Africa where the climate is warm and humid.

Planting in the United States

The tree is used for landscaping throughout the warmer regions of the United States, including areas of the Southwest which have problems with drought.

Lifespan

In native climates the cork oak lives for about 200 years. The lifespan is slightly shorter when planted in drier or cooler regions of the world.

Size

At maturity, the cork oak reaches between 40 and 60 feet in height and is considered a medium sized evergreen.

References

• Boddaert, Roger. "Roger's Tree Pick for August: Cork Oak". thevillagenews.com

Resources

• World Wildlife Federation