Holm oak woods feature sclerophyllous trees with tough and leathery leaves that persist even during the winter.
Some ancient holm oak trees are found in Montecristo. 4 populations of this species are found in Pianosa, of which one features large trees, whereas the other three are small and scattered among old olive trees. This habitat is deeply altered by species that feed on seeds, seedlings, and leaves. Rats and high density populations of ungulates may contribute to such alterations.