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Questions and Answers: 2021

Question: Does Epigaea repens have a relationship with oak trees? Or with any other species in particular?

  • Question

    Does Epigaea repens have a relationship with oak trees? Or with any other species in particular?

    Answer

    Dear Thokozile, I can't give you an answer that will be helpful. I see this species associated with an array of trees (and not always oaks), but oaks are common. It clearly is associated with a mycorrhizal fungus, and perhaps there is some relationship through that path (as both do seem to utilize well-drained, coarse, acidic soils that are not always rich in accumulated organic matter). These sterile, acid soils are known to be rich in a variety of heaths (and oaks), so it certainly appears they share adaptations to this substrate. Best wishes.