Quercus ilex L. – Holm Oak (Holm Oak Tree), a Species Recommended for Urban Greening

This species belongs to the beech family (Fagaceae Dumort.) and the oak genus (Quercus L.). Approximately 600 species of this genus are distributed in the Northern Hemisphere, in tropical regions, and in countries of the temperate zone. These species are mainly found in North America and Southeast Asia. Quercus ilex was introduced to Azerbaijan from the Mediterranean flora in the mid-20th century.

In the flora of Azerbaijan, 12 species of oak are recorded, of which 9 species occur in the native flora and 3 species are cultivated. They differ from one another primarily in leaf shape. The native range of the holm oak includes the Mediterranean coast, Southern Europe, North Africa, and Asia Minor.

Holm oak is cultivated for urban greening in Absheron, Ganja, Shamkir, and other regions. The largest and oldest specimens were recorded in Baku National Park (4 individuals). It is an evergreen tree characterized by a massive trunk and a broad crown.

Each species has its own biological characteristics, which, to varying degrees, shape its adaptation to climatic and soil conditions. Seasonal changes, as well as climatic and soil conditions, do not affect their biological properties; only the species develops a mechanism for adapting to its environmental conditions, all of which are shaped by changes in energy and metabolic processes. 

To determine the age of the studied species Quercus ilex L., use the binocular microscope Lintab 6 and to study the general synthesis of chlorophyll, use the Chlorophylometer SPAD and Photometer APEL AP-120.

Our research has shown that holm oak has high resistance to environmental factors and can be widely used in urban landscaping.