PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Requires full sun for optimal fruiting; tolerates partial shade but reduces fruit yield
Watering
Drought-tolerant once established; water deeply but infrequently to avoid root rot
Temperature
Hardy to -10°C; thrives in warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters
Characteristics
- Leaf: Small, oblong, silvery-green upper surface with pale gray underside; opposite arrangement.
- Flower: Tiny, creamy-white, fragrant panicles in leaf axils.
- Fruit: Oval, purple-black drupes (olives) ripening in late autumn.
- Stem/Bark: Gray-brown, fissured bark on mature trees; slender branching stems.
Care Guide
Watering
Water deeply every 1–2 weeks during dry spells; reduce watering during rainy periods
Fertilization
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers which prioritize leaf growth over fruiting
Eggshell powder top-dress：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1–2 tbsp around the tree base and water in thoroughly to release calciumPruning
- Prune in late winter to remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches
- Thin inner canopy to improve air circulation and sunlight penetration for fruiting
- Remove suckers from the base to prevent overcrowding and redirect energy to main growth
- Trim fruiting branches to encourage new growth for the next season's yield
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic; no known adverse health effects
Humans: Non-toxic; olives are edible when properly processed for consumption
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes peace and abundance in Mediterranean cultural traditions
Usage: Edible fruit for olive oil and table olives; ornamental landscape tree
