Olive

(Olea europaea)

Olive (Olea europaea)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Olea europaea, commonly known as Olive, is an evergreen tree or shrub native to the Mediterranean Basin, with a natural range extending to parts of Africa, and the Middle East. It typically grows to a height of 20-30 feet and a width of 15-25 feet. The Olive tree is characterized by its gnarled and twisted trunk, silvery-green leaves, and small, fragrant, creamy-white flowers followed by the well-known fruit. Flowering occurs in the late spring, and the fruit is harvested in the fall. Olives are highly valued for their oil and as a table fruit.

Olive trees are renowned for their longevity, drought resistance, and ability to thrive on poor, stony soils, making them ideal for xeriscaping and Mediterranean-style gardens. They are commonly used in agriculture for fruit production, as ornamental trees in landscapes, and for creating dense hedges or screens. While they prefer calcareous soils and coastal climates, they are adaptable to a range of soil types, provided they are well-drained. Olives can become problematic if not managed properly, as they are prone to verticillium wilt and can be invasive outside their native range, particularly in places like California.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree, Shrub
  • Height: 20-30 feet
  • Width: 15-25 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Erosion Control, Fragrant, Hedges, Potted Plant, Salt Tolerant, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Mediterranean Basin, with a natural range extending to parts of Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia

Other Names

Common Names: Oliveleaf, Small-Fruit Olive, Olivier, Oliveira, Olivträd, Mzaituni, Mzeituni, African Olive, European Olive, Black Olive

Scientific Names: , Olea europaea, Olea sativa, Olea pallida, Olea verrucosa var. brachybotrya,

GBIF Accepted Name: Olea europaea L.