Holm Oak (Quercus ilex)

Now this can be a conundrum when you are out in 'the field' and not expecting it. They are acorns right? Then it is an oak tree? But those are not the usual Oak shaped leaves, they look a bit like holly? And the leaves are not turning colour and falling, they are still green, and the tree itself, it is not big enough to be an oak, nor is it the right shape.

The holm oak is a true oak nonetheless, it bears the oak Latin name of Quercus to prove the point but it is Britain's only common evergreen oak although it is not truly indigenous having been introduced from the Mediterranean area during the 16th Century into large gardens and parks but also as a wind break, especially in large estates near the sea because it is resistant to salt laden winds.

Often overlooked, or dismissed because it cannot be named, look out for holm oak, it is an interesting tree.