Olea europaea var. europaea 'Arbequina'


Common name(s): olive tree


Description: evergreen tree; a self-fertile cultivar from Spain that will grow upward of 15 ft. The fruit is a glossy black when ripe and is relatively small but rather meaty due to relatively small pits. Hardy to around 10 F after 3 years; in severe winters it can defoliate completely but will often resprout vigorously from the base in early summer.


Height: to 20 ft. Spread: to 15 ft.


Position: full sun and well-draining soil


Uses: culinary, medicine


Winter Hardiness: to 10 F and below


Drought: Adapted to 5 months of summer drought

Care: no special care needed, can be pruned/shaped in late spring or early summer