quercia

Quercia is the Italian name for the oak, referring to trees and shrubs in the genus Quercus, in the family Fagaceae. Oaks are widespread in the temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, with representatives in Europe, Asia and North America. The genus comprises about 600 species, commonly grouped into white oaks and red oaks, with regional classifications such as Cerris or Lobatae in different areas. Prominent European species include Quercus robur (pedunculate oak) and Quercus petraea (sessile oak), while Quercus ilex and Quercus coccifera are common in the Mediterranean.

Leaves are diverse but typically alternate, simple, and often lobed; many species are deciduous, while others are evergreen. Oaks produce wind-pollinated flowers and, annually or seasonally, acorns that mature in one or two years depending on the species. Acorns are a key food source for wildlife and have historically been used by humans as a minor staple in some regions.

Wood is dense, hard, and durable, making it valuable for timber, flooring, veneers, and cooperage for barrels used in aging wine, whiskey, and other beverages. Ecologically, oaks support rich communities of invertebrates, birds, and mammals and are often considered keystone species in forest ecosystems due to their long lifespan and structural role.

Threats include habitat loss, pests, and climate change. Some regions face diseases such as Phytophthora ramorum, which can affect oaks. Conservation efforts emphasize protecting habitats, promoting regeneration, and maintaining genetic diversity within oak populations.