Lithocarpus edulis, also known as the Japanese stone oak or evergreen oak, is a beautiful broadleaf evergreen tree native to Japan. It's a member of the Fagaceae family, which includes oaks, beeches, and chestnuts.
Lithocarpus edulis is prized for its ornamental value due to its attractive foliage and overall form. Here's a closer look at its characteristics, with a focus on its leaves:
Habit and Size: The Japanese stone oak can grow up to 45 feet (15 meters) tall in its natural habitat, but typically reaches a height of 10 to 15 feet (3-5 meters) in cultivation. It has a dense, rounded crown and a sturdy trunk with attractive bark that develops fissures with age.
Leaves: The evergreen leaves of Lithocarpus edulis are one of its most captivating features. They are:
- Shape: Elliptical to inversely lanceolate, meaning they are broadest near the tip and taper towards the base.
- Size: Up to 6 inches (15 centimeters) long and 3 inches (7 centimeters) wide.
- Color: Glossy yellowish-green on the upper surface and a duller green with a slight silvery sheen on the underside. This beautiful contrast adds visual interest throughout the year.
- Texture: Leathery and smooth with entire (unlobed) margins.
- Veins: Have 9 to 11 prominent veins on each side of the midrib, contributing to the overall texture and visual appeal.
Leaf Retention: As an evergreen, Lithocarpus edulis holds onto its leaves throughout the year, adding a touch of vibrant green even during the winter months. This characteristic makes it a valuable addition to gardens, providing year-round visual interest.
Other Features: In addition to its attractive leaves, the Japanese stone oak produces inconspicuous flowers in spring, followed by small acorns that mature in fall. However, the acorns are typically bitter and not considered palatable for human consumption.
Growing Conditions: Lithocarpus edulis thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic soil and prefers full sun to part shade. It's a relatively slow-growing tree but makes up for it with its longevity and resilience. It's considered hardy in USDA zones 7 to 9, tolerating temperatures down to around 0°F (-18°C).
With its beautiful evergreen leaves, attractive form, and tolerance for a variety of conditions, Lithocarpus edulis is a wonderful choice for gardeners seeking a low-maintenance, ornamental tree that adds a touch of elegance and year-round greenery to their landscape.
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