The downy oak is a rare tree species in Germany, located at the most northern border of its natural distribution range. Its population is endangered by beech and/or non-native species. In particular, downy oak stands are at risk from hybridisation with Sessile oak.

In Germany, there are still 26 populations of downy oak with approx. 15,000 individuals, with the main distribution of downy oak in southern Baden-Württemberg.

However, the conservation potential of downy oak in the Federal Republic of Germany can be classified as low. Measures to protect and promote the natural regeneration of existing populations and the possibility of cross-border networking of existing populations to facilitate the exchange of genes between populations.