Quercus coccifera

'Kermes Oak'. The classic dwarf scrub oak of the Mediterranean basin, looking more like a holly. A slow growing, drought resistant evergreen shrub, eventually reaching 2m or more in a sunny site. The foliage often emerges in beautiful shades of copper-red. This is the host plant of the cochineal producing Kermes insect. Often seen wild in the Med' as tightly clipped, undulating topiary specimens of fantastical form, thanks to goats feasting on the new shoots. For sull sun and reasonably well drained soil. Hardy.