Tree of the Month: Quercus acutissima

Quercus acutissima, also known as the sawtooth oak, is a striking deciduous tree that is gaining increasing attention from designers for use in gardens and parks. With its distinctive serrated leaves, robust stature, and remarkable adaptability, this oak is well-suited for a wide range of applications. It is certainly a tree worth highlighting.

Quercus acutissima is a medium to large tree that can reach a mature height of 10 to 15 meters in Europe, with its natural origin in East Asia, including Japan, China, and Korea. The bark is dark brown with deep furrows, which become more pronounced as the tree ages. One of the most notable features of Quercus acutissima is its foliage. The name “acutissima” comes from the Latin word acutus, meaning sharp or pointed. Applied to this oak, it refers to the pointed, serrated leaf edges, which strongly resemble those of the sweet chestnut (Castanea sativa). This feature distinguishes Quercus acutissima from other oak species and contributes to its unique visual appeal.

Semi-evergreen habit
Most oak species found in Europe are deciduous, with the exception of a few Mediterranean types. What makes Quercus acutissima special is that it retains its leaves throughout much of the winter, though it does eventually shed them. The tree is therefore not evergreen, but semi-evergreen. Just before new foliage emerges in spring, the old leaves finally drop. In spring, the fresh, vibrant green leaves create a lush and attractive canopy. The undersides of the leaves are gray, while the petioles and veins are yellow. The crown is broadly pyramidal, becoming more oval with age. In its native habitat, this oak can reach up to 25 meters tall, developing a wide, spreading crown that provides deep shade and privacy.

Distinctive acorns
Another striking feature is the acorns. While the seeds themselves are of the typical oak shape, their cups are large and decorative. In some cultures, the acorns are used for human consumption or as livestock feed. Various culinary applications exist, though in European climates harvests are usually limited due to cooler weather. The acorns are also a valuable food source for wildlife, including squirrels and deer, making this oak an excellent choice for those interested in supporting local fauna.

Uses and applications
One of the main reasons for the growing interest in Quercus acutissima is its adaptability to a wide range of conditions. This oak thrives on a variety of soils—including clay, loam, and sandy soils—and is well-known for its tolerance to urban pollution. It also shows strong resistance to many pests and diseases that affect other oaks. Thanks to its heat tolerance and adaptability, it is truly a tree for the future, capable of withstanding changing climates, even in cities.

Because of this versatility, Quercus acutissima is highly suitable for large parks, urban plantings, and spacious gardens. Once established, it can endure challenging conditions such as air pollution, compacted soils, and drought. However, ensuring sufficient water during the first years after planting is essential to support healthy growth.

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