"Premium Virgin Cork Bark is the term given to the first-harvested bark of the cork oak (Quercus suber) tree. This specific bark (virgin cork bark) has a rough, natural texture which is non toxic. All natural, sustainable virgin cork bark is the perfect decor for terrariums, vivariums and reptile enclosures. The initial stripping of the cork bark occurs around 20 years after a sapling is planted. After each harvest, the cork oak tree completely redevelops its bark and is stripped every 9 to 10 years until the tree is about 200 years old. When the aged tree is no longer serviceable, a minimum of two new saplings are planted in its place, ensuring the cork oak forest continues to embellish and develop. The cork oak tree also breeds off-springs naturally by releasing acorns that implant themselves and mature into productive cork oak trees. Hence, the cork bark industry is 100% sustainable material.