Height : 1 m to 18 m included Origin : Central part of Southern Europe (Italy, Greece) Environment : hill sides; on well-drained soils Climate : temperate, warm
Notes : The Downy Oak is the most diffused Oak in Southern Europe. It often grows in almost shrubby form, but some exemplars can reach majestic dimensions. It is a landmark of winter landscapes because of the leaves. An European legend says that God allowed the devil to have power over the forests. The forest trees complained and God conceded them that devil would not have power over them until leaves were on the trees. The Oak therefore held it’s leaves all winter long, until the other trees put on the new ones.