Quercus floribunda aka Moru

Quercus floribunda is a large oak in the Fagaceae family. Its common names include Moru oak and Tilonj oak. Its native range runs from Afghanistan to the western Himalaya. Plants For A Future also lists Nepal within its range. It grows in moist forests on mountain slopes. These sites lie around 6,890–8,860 feet [2,100–2,700 metres] above sea level. The species comes from a temperate climate.

This fast-growing tree keeps all or some of its leaves. Its branches spread, making it suited to broad, open spaces. RHS gives garden dimensions exceeding 39 feet [12 metres] tall. Its spread can exceed 26 feet [8 metres]. The same account describes trees reaching 98 feet [30 metres]. Full size may take 20–50 years. The dark green leaves have a glossy surface. Small bristles line their toothed edges. The bark has a deep reddish-brown tone. In spring, the tree bears many long male catkins. These stand out more than those of many other oaks.

Choose a sheltered site with sun or partial shade. The soil should hold moisture but drain well. Chalk, clay, loam and sand can all suit it. It accepts acidic, neutral and alkaline soils. RHS assigns it hardiness rating H3. This suits coastal sites and milder parts of Britain. Its size makes it a choice for parks and large gardens. It can also form the canopy of a woodland garden. Sow seeds soon after they fall. Semi-ripe cuttings offer another route in late summer.

Several pests may attack this oak. RHS lists aphids, caterpillars and leaf-mining moths. Oak processionary moth and oak gall wasps may also occur. Powdery mildew and honey fungus are possible diseases. Insect larvae can cause galls on the tree. These galls provide tannin and material for dyes. The hard, strong wood has uses in building. Plants For A Future also records medicinal uses for the galls.

Plants For A Future lists leaves and seeds as edible parts. Its food guidance concerns cooked seeds after removing bitter tannins. Ground seed can thicken stews or join flour for bread. This does not establish that raw seeds are safe. RHS warns that eating this plant can harm dogs. That warning matters despite PFAF listing no known hazards.