Olea Europaea

• Botanical Name: Olea europaea
• Common Name: Olive Tree
• Mature Height: 10-30 feet (3-9 meters) can be pruned to remain smaller
• Mature Spread: 10-20 feet (3-6 meters)
• Growth Rate: Slow to moderate
• Light Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Requirements: Well-draining soil; prefers sandy or loamy soils but is tolerant of various soil types
• Water Needs: Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established
• Foliage: Evergreen, lance-shaped leaves with a silvery-green color and a leathery texture
• Trunk: Gnarled and textured, often with a twisted appearance

Uses:

• Ornamental: Adds a classic Mediterranean touch to gardens, landscapes, and outdoor spaces with its unique foliage and gnarled trunk.
• Fruit Production: Produces edible olives that can be harvested for culinary use or for making olive oil.
• Container Planting: Suitable for growing in pots or containers, making it ideal for patios, balconies, and indoor environments.

Benefits:

• Aesthetic Appeal: The silvery-green foliage and gnarled trunk create a distinctive and attractive appearance.
• Edible Fruit: Provides a harvest of olives, which can be used in cooking or processed into olive oil.
• Drought-Tolerant: Highly adaptable to dry conditions once established, making it a low-maintenance option.
• Longevity: Olive trees can live for many years and even centuries, becoming a cherished feature in gardens and landscapes.

The Olive Tree (Olea europaea) is a timeless and versatile addition to any garden or landscape. Its elegant form, practical fruit production, and adaptability to various conditions make it a valuable and beautiful plant for both ornamental and functional purposes.