Overview

Olea europaea subsp. africana is a bushy trees in the genus Olea, part of the Oleaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Olea europaea subsp. africana grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include patio and container plants, city and courtyard gardens, sub-tropical and edible fruit.

About

Olea europaea subsp. africana, commonly known as wild olive, is a bushy evergreen tree belonging to the Olea genus. These small to medium-sized trees feature simple, opposite, leathery foliage and produce small whitish flowers in spring and summer. The flowers develop into edible drupes, typical of the genus. Suited to full sun and sheltered, south-facing aspects, this cultivar thrives in fertile, well-drained loam with a neutral pH. Hardy to UK zone H4, it is suitable for patio and container planting as well as city and courtyard gardens in sub-tropical conditions.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Olea

Sunlight

Full sun

Soil type

Loam

Soil pH

Neutral

Soil moisture

Well-drained

Aspect

South-facing

Exposure

Sheltered

UK hardiness

H4

Plant details

Olea europaea subsp. africana size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

Trees

Habit

Bushy

Foliage

Evergreen

Suggested uses

Patio and container plants, City and courtyard gardens, Sub-tropical, Edible fruit

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Olea europaea subsp. africana

Propagation

Seed, Semi-ripe cuttings

Pest resistance

Scale insect

Disease resistance

Xylella fastidiosa, Honey fungus, Olive scab

Frequently asked questions