Fauna
Plant · GBIF taxon 2881283

Downy Oak

Quercus pubescens

Also known as Pubescent Oak, Italian Oak

Downy oak thrives on warm, sunny limestone hillsides across southern Europe and southwestern Asia, easily distinguished by the soft, velvet-like hairs covering its twigs and leaf undersides. Leaves often persist through winter in a dried, pale brown state before dropping in spring when new growth emerges. Its extensive root system forms symbiotic relationships with subterranean fungi like black truffles, while providing critical habitat for abundant woodland wildlife.

DeciduousTreeMediterranean
Downy Oak reference1 / 7
Licensed reference(c) Gianni Del Bufalo bygdb, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
—observations
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Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & prey
  • Autotrophic (Photosynthesis)
ThreatsSevere droughts, severe wildfire, habitat fragmentation
HabitatsDry oak woodlands, limestone slopes, sub-Mediterranean thickets
Life span200–500 years
Classification
  1. FamilyFagaceae
  2. SpeciesQuercus pubescens
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
  • Foliage Check: Feel for the distinctive soft, fuzzy underside on young leaves and twigs.
  • Seasonal Timing: Look for dead, marcescent leaves clinging to branches late into winter.
  • Habitat Search: Seek out sun-exposed limestone slopes and dry open woodlands.
Related species
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