Edibles – Fruit – Olive Tree

Olive Tree 

Botanical name: olea europaea 

Beginner friendly?: moderate 

Average size at maturity: can reach over 40 ft in height with a spread of over 30 ft 

Hardy zone: zones 8-10 

Growth rate: grows 1-2 ft per year 

Foliage color: green/gray 

Flower color: white 

Bloom time:  spring/summer blooms, fruit for harvest in the summer/fall 

Pruning instructions: trim to maintain desired shape and size in the winter/early spring before new growth begins to emerge

Propagation methods: propagate with cuttings during the fall and winter months 

Landscape use: edible garden, shade tree, privacy tree, focal point

Special features: attracts pollinators, disease resistant, heat tolerant 

Light needs: at least 6 hours of sun per day 

Watering instructions: allow the top 2-4 inches of soil to dry out between watering sessions 

Fertilizing instructions : use an organic fertilizer once a year in the early spring 

Best time to plant: spring, fall 

Best type of soil: loam, sand 

Companion plants: lavender, rosemary, thyme, oregano 

Toxicity level: non-toxic for humans and pets 

Invasive species: potentially invasive