An evergreen tree species belonging to the beech family (Fagaceae). It is native to the Mediterranean region, mainly in countries such as Portugal, Spain and North Africa. The cork oak is known for its distinctive bark and the use of cork, which is extracted from the bark of the tree.
The cork layer protects the tree against drought, heat and fire. Cork harvesting is an important economic activity and is done approximately every 9-12 years, without causing any damage to the tree.