Desert olive (Forestiera pubescens)

Desert olive

Also known as: Spring Herald, Devil's Elbow, New Mexico Privet, Stretchberry

Desert olive flowers attract butterflies for a short time period in early spring. Individual bushes grow as either male or female, and the females bear small bluish fruits that will often bring in birds.

Scientific classification

Species

Desert olive (Forestiera pubescens)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

1.8 m to 4.5 m

Plant Height

1.4 m

Spread

Yellow, Green

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

Images of Desert olive

Attributes of Desert olive

Growth Rate

With a moderate growth rate, desert olive flourishes in Spring and Summer, developing its foliage and height gradually. This steady development helps it resist succumbing to drought in the desert environments. Predictable rhythm of leaf production complements the pace of its growth, while flowering often aligns with peak growth periods, rendering a visual record of its growing progress.

Distribution of Desert olive

Distribution Map

Native to the warm temperate and subtropical regions of North America, desert olive thrives in a range of habitats within this broad area. It has been introduced and naturalized in other regions that replicate its native climate and ecological conditions, expanding its range beyond its original territory.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Thickets, Prairie, Plains, Meadows, Pastures, Savannas, Woodlands edge, Opening

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Desert olive

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Adapted to arid conditions, desert olive thrives with minimal moisture and high drought tolerance. Water every 2-3 weeks, and ensure well-draining soil to mimic its native dry habitat, promoting healthy growth without waterlogging.

Fertilize: For optimal growth of desert olive, use balanced fertilizers with high nitrogen during spring and summer. Fertilize biannually, applying moderate amounts to avoid nutrient overload. Water thoroughly post-fertilization and regularly monitor soil nutrients to adjust the schedule based on desert olive's response.

Pruning: Desert olive thrives in dry conditions and features small leaves. Pruning should occur in early spring, focusing on removing damaged branches and thinning for airflow. This promotes healthy growth and disease prevention. Use clean, sharp tools for better healing and robust development.

Propagation: Desert olive thrives with proper propagation techniques, requiring a well-draining, sandy substrate for successful germination. Maintain consistent moisture, avoiding waterlogging. Pick ripe, disease-free seeds and consider pre-sowing stratification to improve germination rates. Attention to growing conditions ensures healthy development of desert olive plants.

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Images of Desert olive

Attributes of Desert olive

Distribution of Desert olive

Care Guide for Desert olive

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