Cork comes from the outer bark of the cork oak tree, scientifically known as Quercus suber. These trees primarily grow in forests around the Mediterranean Sea, with the largest cork production centered in Portugal. Other countries where cork oaks are cultivated include Spain, Italy, France, Morocco, Tunisia, and Algeria
. The cork is harvested by carefully stripping the bark from the tree, a process that does not harm the tree and can be done every 9 to 14 years once the tree reaches about 25 years of age. The tree then regenerates the bark, making cork a sustainable and environmentally friendly material
. In summary, cork originates from the bark of the cork oak tree found mainly in Mediterranean countries, with Portugal being the leading producer worldwide
