Quercus acuta aka Japanese Evergreen Oak

Quercus acuta is the Japanese evergreen oak, a tree in Fagaceae. It comes from East Asia, though the supplied range records differ. They list Japan, Korea, Taiwan and China between them. It is not native to Britain or Ireland. This evergreen keeps its leaves throughout the year. Its crown can take an oval or rounded shape. PFAF gives a height of 82 feet [25 metres]. It describes the tree's growth rate as moderate.

Brown flowers appear in spring, from early through late spring. Each tree bears separate male and female flowers. Wind carries pollen between the flowers. The seeds reach about 0.8 inches [2 centimetres] long. They lose their ability to sprout when they dry out. Sow ripe seed promptly, or keep it cool and moist. Mice and squirrels can eat seed in outdoor beds. Young trees form a deep taproot and dislike root disturbance.

This oak prefers deep, fertile loam that holds moisture. It also accepts heavy clay, with mildly acid or neutral soil. Chalky ground does not suit it. It grows in sun or partial shade. Young plants can cope with shade from the sides. It withstands some wind, but not coastal exposure. PFAF lists USDA zones 6–9. Yet cool British summers can leave its wood poorly matured. Frost may then damage that growth during winter. Milder sites offer better conditions in Britain.

Garden uses include screens, specimen planting and street trees. It can also form part of a woodland garden canopy. Some exposed sites may limit its growth without killing it. Plant young trees in their final sites to limit root damage. PFAF reports that leaf mulch can deter slugs and grubs. Fresh leaves can suppress plant growth, so avoid them as mulch. Insect larvae can cause galls on the tree. These growths provide tannin and material for dyes.

The seeds have food uses after preparation and cooking. Their bitter tannins need thorough leaching with water. Whole seeds may need days or weeks; ground seed leaches faster. Dried seed flour can thicken stews or join cereal flour. PFAF reports no known hazards, but this does not establish universal safety. It also records medicinal uses for astringent galls. Those records do not establish safe or effective home treatments.