Quercus frainetto - Farnetto (Forestry alveolus)

Genus of about 600 species of monoecious, semi-deciduous or evergreen trees and shrubs, widely distributed in woodlands and scrub of the Northern Hemisphere. The Quercus frainetto is a large deciduous tree, it can exceed 30 m in height and 1 m in trunk diameter, with a majestic shape and compact foliage. Bark is initially smooth, then divided into small flat flakes. Large, deeply lobed leaves, with lobes that are themselves lobulated. Sweet acorns due to the absence of tannins and therefore much appreciated by animals (and once by humans). Robust and deep root system. Typical species of central-southern Italy, it grows in lowland and hill forests often together with turkey oak.

Pedoclimatic needs

Deep and fresh soils, preferably with a sub-acid reaction, even with a shallow water table. Requires sunny positions and adequate space. Rustic species, it resists cold and even intense and prolonged frosts down to -18°/-20°C.

Botanical Information

Botanical Name: Quercus frainetto

Family: Fagaceae