Lithocarpus (stone oak)

These are the closest relatives to oak and are very similar to evergreen oaks. Native to warmer parts of Asia, they number over 200 species in the wild, however most aren’t tolerant of the UK’s colder climate.

The National Collection of Lithocarpus at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens contains 19 individual plants, and eight of the hardiest species. Lithocarpus edulis is a popular street tree in Tokyo, producing edible fruit with good flavour.

Though Lithocarpus have year-round interest, they flower with upright catkin-like flower spikes in autumn.