Wood Density and Ring Width in Quercus rotundifolia Trees in Southern Portugal

Quercus rotundifolia Lam., known as holm oak or evergreen oak, occurs naturally in the western Mediterranean region, mainly part of agroforestry agrosilvopastoral systems Portugal (“montado”) and Spain (“dehesa”), is economically important for acorn production. Less attention has been given to Q. wood, its density variability not known, namely related tree growth. The wood 20 trees was measured along radial direction by X-ray densitometry factors responsible ring width variation within between were investigated at two sites located main species region southern Portugal. Ring significantly different sites, with an average 1.81 mm 1.55 mm. Wood very high averaged 888 kg/m3 914 but sites. showed a positive significant correlation both Cambial age source density, while between-tree effects accounted considerable proportion variation. results are contribution valorisation aiming high-value products, also adding knowledge on growth interest selection sustainable management.