Description
Origin
The Olea europaea, better known as the olive tree, is a tree from the olive family that originates from the eastern Mediterranean region. This ancestral type of tree is often associated with peace and prosperity in historical texts, as well as with wisdom and hope. The olive tree has been cultivated since the Bronze Age and spread throughout the Mediterranean region, where the climate is ideal for its growth.
Characteristics
The Olea europaea, which remains green year-round, is a long-lasting plant that can reach up to twelve meters in height. It has a gnarled trunk, leathery leaves, and produces small fragrant flowers followed by edible fruits, the olives. The fruits vary from green to black, depending on their maturity. The tree has a long lifespan, with some specimens being millennia old.
Care
Olive trees require a sunny location and well-drained soil. They can withstand extremely dry conditions and have a low nutrient need. Apart from some frost protection, maintenance is relatively easy: the tree simply needs occasional pruning to maintain its shape and stimulate fruit production. Watering is generally only necessary during dry periods, and excess shoots can be regularly removed.
