Quercus myrsinifolia is an Asian species of tree in the ring-cupped oaks subgenus of the family Fagaceae. It has several common names, including bamboo-leaf oak, Chinese evergreen oak, and Chinese ring-cupped oak. Its Chinese name is 小叶青冈; pinyin: xiǎo yè qīng gāng, which means little leaf ring-cupped oak (literally translated as little leaf green ridge tree), in Japan it is called white oak (白樫, shirakashi, not to be confused with Quercus alba) and in Korea it is known as gasinamu (가시나무). It is native to east central and southeast China, Japan, Korea, Laos, northern Thailand, and Vietnam.
The Chinese evergreen oak is resistant to disease and generally not vulnerable to illnesses. With regard to care, this plant is fairly low-maintenance. When grown outdoors it needs little watering, and larger plants typically do not require pruning. Smaller plants, however, should be trimmed after they have finished blooming. Chinese evergreen oakt is appropriate for anyone who has outdoor space, such as a garden or a deck, and it does not demand much gardening experience.
How to keep Quercus Myrsinifolia.
Light
The Chinese evergreen oak flourishes with plentiful sunlight, reflecting the conditions of its native habitat. Providing it with ample sun encourages robust growth. Keep in mind, though, that too little or too much light can restrict its development. Its light requirements stay the same throughout the different stages of its life.
Temperature
Chinese evergreen oak is native to regions where temperatures range from 59 to 95°F (15 to 35℃). It does best in warmer climates and may need measures like mulching or being grown indoors during colder periods.
Fertilizer
Fertilize your Chinese evergreen oak in early spring to encourage healthy growth. Regular fertilization improves overall health, producing vigorous growth, increased resilience to challenging conditions, and enhanced resistance to pests and diseases. Maintain a consistent fertilization schedule for your Chinese evergreen oak to preserve vibrant, deep-colored foliage and a lush appearance.
Pruning
The Chinese evergreen oak is characterized by its glossy, evergreen leaves and sturdy structure. To promote growth, prune the tree from early to late winter by removing any dead or damaged branches. Thinning the branches improves air circulation and sunlight exposure, while shaping helps maintain the tree's size and natural form, contributing to its overall health and beauty.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Tree
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Quercus
- Family
- Fagaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 7-10
- Mature Height
- 20.12 m
- Mature Spread
- 4.57 m to 9.14 m
- Leaf Color
- Dark Green, Olive Drab
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Size
- 4.06 cm to 6.35 cm
- Bloom Time
- Mid spring, Late spring
- Planting Time
- Spring, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Mid summer, Late summer
- Native Area
- Vietnam, Japan, Myanmar, Koppen, Laos, South Korea, Thailand, China
Other names.
Reader questions.
How should I water my Chinese evergreen oak?
When watering your Chinese evergreen oak, you have many options for the watering tool. You can use watering cans, hoses, or even cups. Regardless of the tool, make sure to water the soil directly and evenly, so all parts of the root system get enough water. Filtered water is preferable to tap water to avoid harmful particles. Water at or slightly above room temperature is best, as extreme temperatures can shock the plant. However, the Chinese evergreen oak usually does well with any type of water.
Why do I have to put fertilizer on my Chinese evergreen oak plant?
If you own a type of Chinese evergreen oak, it's important to regularly fertilize it. This will help your plant be healthy, grow vigorously, and be better able to withstand tough conditions and pests. Maintaining the foliage is also important for its attractiveness. To achieve this, you should follow a specific fertilizer schedule for your Chinese evergreen oak. This will result in leaves that are vibrant in color and give your plant a lush appearance.
How many hours of sunlight per day should Chinese evergreen oak get to grow healthy?
To promote healthy growth, Chinese evergreen oak needs a minimum of 3-6 hours of sunlight each day. Although most plants that tolerate part sunlight can also do well in full sunlight, Chinese evergreen oak is more adaptable since it requires less sunlight for photosynthesis compared to plants that need full sun or partial shade.
What temperature is best for Chinese evergreen oak?
The Chinese evergreen oak thrives best at temperatures between 65-80℉ (18-27℃). During its primary growing phase, it can tolerate temperatures as high as 95℉ (35℃) and as low as 15℉ (-10℃). This species is capable of surviving freezing winters due to its tolerance for low temperatures. Here are the ideal, highest, and lowest temperature ranges: Perfect: 65-80℉ (18-27℃), Highest: 85-95℉ (30-35℃), Lowest: -5 to 15℉ (-20 to -10℃) or lower.
What should I do if I give too much or too little water to my Chinese evergreen oak?
Outdoor plants, especially newly planted ones or seedlings, are prone to lack of watering. It is important to keep watering them consistently for a few months until the tree is established. Once the roots are well-developed, Chinese evergreen oaks can rely on rainwater most of the time. When Chinese evergreen oaks are planted in pots, overwatering is more likely to happen. If you accidentally overwater your tree, it is crucial to take immediate action to remedy the situation. Stop watering the plant right away to minimize the impact of overwatering. Then, inspect the roots by removing the tree from its pot. If there is no sign of root rot, you can return the tree to its container. However, if root rot is present, trim away the affected roots and apply a fungicide to prevent further damage. Finally, repot the tree in well-draining soil. On the other hand, underwatering can be easily resolved. If you notice drooping, dry, or falling leaves, it is a sign of underwatering. Simply water the plant more frequently and the leaves will regain their fullness quickly. Make sure to correct your watering frequency as soon as you notice signs of underwatering.
When should I fertilize my Chinese evergreen oak tree?
To ensure healthy growth, it is recommended to fertilize your Chinese evergreen oak during late winter or early spring. This provides all the necessary nutrients for growth once the weather warms up. Additionally, if you live in a warm climate region, it is beneficial to provide another round of fertilizer in early fall. This replenishes the soil with nutrients for the following growing season and helps the oak withstand the winter cold without leaf damage. Early fertilization allows the new branches to strengthen in preparation for winter.
What kind of sunlight does Chinese evergreen oak require?
Chinese evergreen oak thrives when exposed to full or partial sunlight. It thrives with direct morning light but needs protection from the strong afternoon sun during the summer. In temperate environments, excessive hot afternoon sun can potentially burn the leaves, which can harm the plant's overall appearance and health.
Do I need to change the temperature for Chinese evergreen oak at different stages of growth?
According to research, Chinese evergreen oak shows signs of stunted growth when exposed to high temperatures for extended periods, particularly during the development of axillary buds and the growth of main shoots. To promote healthy growth after germination or transplanting, it is recommended to maintain consistent and cooler temperatures around 65℉(18℃).
How frequently should I water my Chinese evergreen oak plant?
If your area lacks rainfall, it's important to provide regular watering for outdoor plants every 2 weeks in the spring and fall, and more often in the summer. In the winter, when growth slows down and plants require less water, it's best to water sparingly or not at all. However, young or newly planted Chinese evergreen oak trees need more frequent watering to help them establish and grow. For potted Chinese evergreen oak plants, there are two ways to determine watering frequency. The first is to follow a predetermined schedule, typically once every week or every other week. However, this may not always be accurate as it doesn't consider the specific growing conditions. Watering frequency can also vary with the season. During summer, when the plant's water needs are highest, a predetermined schedule may not be sufficient. Alternatively, you can check the soil moisture and wait until the first two to four inches have dried out completely before watering again.
When should I not use fertilizer on my Chinese evergreen oak?
To ensure proper care for your Chinese evergreen oak, avoid fertilizing it during certain times of the year. Firstly, in the early and mid-winter months when the plant is dormant, it does not require any feeding. Secondly, refrain from fertilizing during the late spring and throughout the entire summer. These seasons tend to be hotter and drier, which can cause your Chinese evergreen oak to react negatively to fertilization. The best approach is to follow a fertilization schedule that involves feeding only during the early spring and early fall.
Can the sun harm Chinese evergreen oak? How can I keep Chinese evergreen oak safe from sun and heat damage?
Chinese evergreen oak planted indoors can be harmed by direct sunlight if moved outdoors. To avoid sunburn, gradually move pots from shade to a brighter spot. However, even plants accustomed to the sun may suffer from extreme heat. During a heatwave, it's crucial to maintain consistently moist soil to help plants withstand excessive temperatures. To shield delicate Chinese evergreen oaks in containers from extreme weather, consider relocating them to shaded areas or using a shade cloth.
How can I protect a Chinese evergreen oak from the cold during winter?
Chinese evergreen oak is a hardy plant that can survive freezing temperatures in ground when not below 15℉ (-10℃) in winter. However, if planted in pots or containers, their roots need protection from cold. This can be done by wrapping the container with a blanket or bringing it indoors for full protection from winter weather.
