Leaf morphology is highly variable, and leaves with both entire and serrated margins may be found on the same tree.

Quercus aucheri no doubt belongs in section Ilex, however, it is unclear whether it is closer to holm oak (Q. ilex), as suggested by a molecular analysis,[6] or kermes oak, as suggested by a comprehensive phylogenetic analysis by Hipp et al.,[7] as well as morphological comparisons.

[4] Others yet have argued for a closer relationship to ballota oak (Q. rotundifolia) from the western Mediterranean, on account of similarities in leaf and acorn morphology.

[5] Despite its limited range, Q. aucheri is a common member of coastal woodlands in the southeastern Aegean and the Teke Peninsula, occurring on volcanic and calcareous slopes.

Another species of oak Q. aucheri co-occurs with is Aleppo oak (Q. infectoria); Other common constituents of these woodland communities are Turkish pine (Pinus brutia), Mediterranean cypress (Cupressus sempervirens), wild olive (Olea oleaster), Phillyrea and other shrubs.