Texas Olive Tree (Cordia boissieri)

Texas Olive Tree

Cordia boissieri

Its silvery foliage and creamy blooms bring warm, arid-region charm. Evergreen shrub or small tree; common name: Texas Olive Tree.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerates intense heat and reflected sunlight in arid regions
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Watering Deep, infrequent watering; allow top 15–20 cm of soil to dry completely between waterings
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Temperature Hardy to -10°C; thrives in warm, arid climates; avoid prolonged frost exposure
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Silvery-gray, oval to rounded leaves with soft fuzzy texture; opposite arrangement
  • Flower: Fragrant, creamy-white to pale yellow trumpet-shaped blooms, 5–7 cm wide
  • Fruit: Round, yellow-orange drupe; edible when fully ripe
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Care Guide

Watering

Water deeply every 1–2 weeks; increase frequency during prolonged heatwaves

Fertilization

Apply slow-release balanced fertilizer once in early spring. Do not fertilize in fall or winter to support natural dormancy

Eggshell powder topdress:Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1–2 tbsp around the base of the plant and water in lightly to release nutrients
Pruning
  • Remove dead or damaged branches in late winter to maintain a rounded canopy
  • Thin dense inner growth to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
  • Prune lightly after spring flowering to encourage bushier growth and potential fall rebloom
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No recorded toxicity to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects for humans; ripe fruit is edible in small quantities

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental landscaping; drought-tolerant garden plant for arid regions