Possible origin and demographic asset of a population of Quercus trojana Webb subsp. trojana
(Fagaceae) in the wood of Ficuzza (Palermo, Sicily). The first record of Macedonian oak in Sicily is
reported. The finding consists of 73 adult and 4 young individuals. A morphometric analysis of all
of them, along with an assessment of their phytosanitary status was carried out. They all grow
between 700 and 850 m a.s.l. on a 2,30 ha area, characterized by a land mosaic of shrubland and forest
patches. Notwithstanding two years of researches, no ultimate proof has been found on their
alien status. On this purpose, several alternative hypothesis are formulated and their strengths and
weaknesses are discussed. Considering that the environmental conditions of Ficuzza fit very well the
ecological requirements of Quercus trojana, even the native status of local population cannot be
totally rejected. On the other hand, many data support its recent introduction. In fact, according to
interviews to old forest workers, archive documents and aerial photos, most part of the trees of this
area have been planted just few years after the end of the Second World War, and dendrochronological
analyses have pointed out that the biggest Macedonian oaks of Sicily are no more than 50-60
years old. Whatever the origin of local Macedonian oak population is, the presence of natural renovation
testifies, at least, its full naturalisation within the Sicilian territory
