About
This evergreen tree with greyish-green leaves and fruits which are processed for pickled olives and olive oil. It is an ancient variety originating from the Alpes de Haute Provence. Oval, fleshy olives are green-pink, ripening to dark purple. It copes better than others in slightly colder regions. Harvest in October for green olives and November-December for black olives or oil.
About the genus
Olea are small or medium sized evergreen trees with simple, opposite leathery leaves. Flowers are in terminal or axillary panicles, and are small, whitish and followed by an ovoid, oblong or globose drupe (fruit).
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeTrees
HabitColumnar upright, Spreading branched
FoliageSemi evergreen
Height4-8 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, City and courtyard gardens, Mediterranean climate plants, Patio and container plants
Care notes
CultivationGrow in deep, fertile, sharply-drained soil in full sun. Under glass, grow in peat-free John Innes No 3 with added sharp sand, in full light. See olive cultivation
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by seed in spring at a temperature of 13-15°C (55-59°F). Can also be propagated by semi-ripe cuttings in summer
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to scale insect
Disease resistanceHigh Risk Host for Xylella fastidiosa. May be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely). May be susceptible to Olive scab