Evergreen Oaks

[Jan]

I picked up a few evergreen oaks, pencil thick cuttings with smallish leaves (about 3 - 4 cm). I'm going to grow on a couple in larger pots to try to put some thickness into the trunks but know little about this variety. Should I treat them the same as regular oaks? Has anyone tried these? Any tips appreciated.

Thanks,

Jan

[shibui]

There are many evergreen oaks Jan. do you know which species you have?
I have grown both Quercus suber and Q. ilex. Both have been pretty tough reflecting their natural habitat but are very slow to ramify and look like convincing trees - same as other oaks. Smaller leaves than many other oaks are more attractive proposition for bonsai.
Nothing special about culture I can think of. Most evergreen oaks seem to come from warmer, often drier habitats (mediterranean, North Africa, Mexico, Southern USA, etc) so would probably prefer well draining mix and keep on the dry side rather than too wet.

[Jan]

Thanks.

I picked them up from the local TAFE when they were having their end-of-term shade house cleanout so I'll see if they know the variety.

Jan