kermes oak

plant

Also known as: Quercus coccifera

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Last updated

June 30, 2026

Quick Summary

The kermes oak (Quercus coccifera) is a dwarf, evergreen oak native to the Mediterranean region. It is notable for being the host plant of the kermes insect. The bark of the kermes oak is rich in tannin. The dried bodies of the female kermes insects, found on this oak, have been used as a red dyestuff. The word "kermes" itself refers to this red dyestuff or the insects that produce it.12

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oak
Major species and uses
suber), and the tannin-rich kermes oak (Q. coccifera) is the host of the kermes insect, once harvested for a dye contained in its body fluids.
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suber), and the tannin-rich kermes oak (Q. coccifera) is the host of the kermes insect, once harvested for a dye contained in its body fluids.
Read More