Quercus lamellosa

Quercus lamellosa, or bull oak, is a large evergreen tree. It belongs to the beech family, Fagaceae. Its native range runs from the central Himalaya into China. There it reaches Yunnan and western Guangxi. It grows in a subtropical climate and forms dense evergreen forests. These forests also contain Lithocarpus and Castanopsis trees. They occur at heights up to 8,860 feet [2,700 metres].

The tree can reach about 115 feet [35 metres] tall. It keeps its leaves throughout the year. Its size suits the canopy of a woodland garden. PFAF also values it as an ornamental tree. Each tree bears both male and female flowers. Wind carries pollen between the flowers. The acorns hold very large seeds. PFAF reports that just four seeds can cover an adult hand.

Grow it in deep, fertile loam that holds moisture. It also accepts heavy clay and mildly acidic to mildly alkaline soils. It can grow in sun or partial shade. Young plants cope with some shade from the sides. Moderate exposure may limit its size without killing it. It does not suit sites exposed to sea winds. PFAF lists USDA zones 7–10 but describes it as tender in Britain. It grows well in Cornwall and on the Isle of Wight. It prefers warmer summers than Britain usually provides.

Plant young trees where they can stay. Their deep taproots make later moves difficult. Sow ripe seed promptly, since drying soon reduces its viability. Keep stored seed cool and moist. Protect sown seeds from mice and squirrels. The tree can hybridize with other oaks. Insect larvae may cause galls on its tissues. Fresh leaves used as mulch can check other plants' growth. PFAF reports that leaf mulch can repel slugs and grubs.

The seeds are edible after preparation and cooking. Their bitter tannins need thorough leaching with water. Ground seeds can thicken stews or join cereal flour in bread. Leaching whole seeds can take days or weeks. PFAF lists no known hazards, but describes this need for processing. It records traditional astringent uses for bark, acorns and galls. Bark and galls also supply tannins. The hard wood serves for construction, tool handles and fuel. It lasts well when kept dry.