Of these 110 species of broad-leavedevergreen trees, two are native to Oregon and California. They are popular for their handsome, dark, lustrous leaves. Relatives of Chestnut and Oak trees, their nuts are enclosed in spiny burrs. Scaly winter buds turn to flowers and bloom in erect fluffy spines. Not cold hardy. Require well-drained, even dry soil, and tolerate acid soil.
This tree is difficult to cultivate. Its long-pointed leathery leaves are dark green on top and yellow on the bottom. The trunk is covered in thick, rough, furrowed bark.