Olive Tree

One of the oldest 'fruits' there is and cultivation has been documented since 3000BC; the Olive Branch has been a symbol of peace since the time of the Old Testament!

A native shrub to the Mediterranean.

Silver-grey shiny foliage and the gnarled effect its trunk and branch work take on make this a beautiful tree regardless of fruit. Has a pretty little white, feathery flower before fruits are formed.

• Self fertile (but cross-pollination will increase yield).
• Likes a sheltered sunny position in the Summer (to ensure proper fruit ripening).
• Prefers a free draining soil.
• Evergreen.
• Can reach 26 - 49 feet (8 – 15 metres) if you let it, but can be maintained at a height of 6 feet (1.8 metres) or more.
• Plants grown in the ground will prove hardy to all but the severest long frosty spells; if grown in a container they should be moved to frost free conditions for the winter.
• Green Olives are the un-ripened fruit; black olives arise when they are allowed to remain until fully ripened.
• Ripe fruits should be cured in salt or lye and then stored in oil or brine.