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Olive
Also known as: Indian olive, Wild-olive
Olive (Olea europaea) is an evergreen tree or shrub with great agricultural importance, especially in the Mediterranean. Its fruits are edible and widely used for making oil. Olive has acquired quite a few symbolic meanings during its long history of cultivation. The most popular symbol would probably be the olive branch, which represents peace and glory.
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Perennial
Lifespan
Tree, Shrub
Plant Type
Mid spring, Late spring
Bloom Time
Summer, Fall
Harvest Time
4 m to 15 m
Plant Height
8 m
Spread
Green, Silver, Gray
Leaf Color
2 cm to 4 cm
Flower Size
Green, Black, Purple
Fruit Color
White, Yellow
Flower Color
Green, Silver, Black
Stem Color
Winter dormancy
Dormancy
Evergreen
Leaf type
15 - 35 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Summer
Growth Season

Images of Olive

Distribution of Olive

Distribution Map
Olive has a broad geographical footprint, natively spanning multiple continents, including Mediterranean regions, parts of Africa, and areas within the Middle East and Asia. It has been introduced to other territories like certain parts of Asia, Africa, and South America, and even making its way to Oceania and North America. While olive is extensively cultivated, contributing to its widespread presence, it is sometimes thought to be invasive in certain areas, although it may have an impact on ecosystems rather than causing significant disruptions. Its cultivation is predominantly for its value rather than an unintentional spread into wild areas.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Introduced
No species reported
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Habitat
Woods, Scrub
Hemisphere Trend Curve
Flowering
Fruiting

Culture

Economic Value
Olive oil can be used in lubricants, cosmetics, soaps, etc. The olive fruit can be made into canned preserves.
Garden Use
Olive can be used in hedges or flowerbed greening. Some people grow it to harvest the fruits, but it can be a useful landscaping plant simply for its attractive appearance. It is often planted with rose bushes, which are used as a marker that the olives will grow healthily.
Symbolism
Victory, hope, blessing
Interesting Facts
Olives are one of the earliest plants recorded in literature. More than 2,000 years ago, Horace, an ancient Roman poet, wrote in an article about his diet that "As for me, olives, endives, and mallows provide sustenance." ("Me pascunt olivae, me cichorea, me malvae")
Name Story
Olive tree||European olive: Olive comes from the latin saint's name Oliva. Its botanical name, Olea europaea means "European olive". Moreover, its fruit is one of the sources of olive oil in the Mediterranean and has served as an important agricultural significance for the Mediterranean. It is sometimes called Olive tree, or European olive.
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Quickly Identify Olive

1
Evergreen plant with slow growth, reaching 20-30 feet (6-9 meters) in height and displaying a distinct rounded crown.
2
Leaves are grayish-green on top, silvery underneath, elliptical to lanceolate, and 3 inches (7.5 cm) long.
3
Small, aromatic white flowers in 2-inch-long (5 cm) panicles, blooming in summer, aiding in identification.
4
Oval drupes initially green, maturing to purplish-black, about 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) in length.
5
Gnarled and twisted stems ranging from slender branches to 1-foot (30 cm) diameter trunks, with irregular branching pattern.
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Care Guide for Olive

Every 1-2 weeks
Water
Full sun
Sunlight
15 - 35 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Water: Originating from the Mediterranean, olive prefers well-draining soil and moderate moisture, thriving in drought-like conditions. Water every 1-2 weeks, allowing soil to dry in between. As an evergreen, olive retains foliage year-round, showcasing its water efficiency and resilience in diverse climates.
Fertilize: Olive requires balanced fertilizers (10-10-10) for establishment and high nitrogen before flowering. Fertilize semi-annually, spring and autumn, applying 1-2 pounds for young trees. Over-fertilization risks root burn; adjust seasonally for nutrient availability. Water thoroughly after application for optimal absorption.
Pruning: Olive is an evergreen tree with silvery-green leaves. Prune in early to late winter to enhance shape, remove dead wood, and improve air circulation. Light, regular pruning promotes healthier growth and better fruit production while avoiding stress from heavy pruning.
Propagation: Olive is propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings, measuring a few inches with multiple nodes. Use rooting hormone for better root development in well-draining soil. Maintain consistent moisture and warmth while preventing waterlogging. A healthy mother plant improves the success rate of rooted cuttings.
Repotting: Repot olive every 2-3 years in spring for optimal growth. Choose larger pots for root expansion and use well-draining soil. Water sparingly post-repotting until new growth appears. Provide a sunny location, and remember that patience is essential during olive's repotting cycle.
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