Kermes Oak (Quercus coccifera)
Scientific Name: Quercus coccifera — Kermes Oak.
Native Home: Mediterranean region, including southern Europe, North Africa and western Asia.
Height: Usually 6–20 ft (2–6 m), occasionally taller.
Lifespan: Can survive for several centuries.
Uses and Harvesting
Acorns & Wood: Acorns provide wildlife and livestock food; hard wood has traditionally been used for tools and charcoal.
Kermes Dye: Historically, insects living on the oak were collected to produce a valuable crimson-red dye.
Harvesting: Acorns are collected after ripening, while wood is cut from mature plants.
Products: Acorns, charcoal, firewood, tannins and natural red dye.
History and Global Production
Traditional Use: Important Mediterranean source of fuel, animal feed and natural dye for centuries.
Global Spread: Mainly remains within Mediterranean climates, where it is valued for drought resistance and erosion control.
){kind=link}