Origin and characteristics of wild olive trees
Image - Wikimedia / Zeynel Cebeci
The wild olive is a large tree or shrub originating as we said in the Mediterranean, where it forms part of the bushes along with other Mediterranean plants, such as the mastic, the myrtle or the daddy. It is also found in mountainous regions, accompanying cork oaks, gall oaks and oaks.
Grows to a height of 6-7 meters, rarely 10 meters, with a trunk that tends to twist with age. Its crown is rounded, very dense, formed by opposite leaves, lanceolate, leathery and 2 to 6 cm long, dark green on the upper surface and paler on the underside.
The flowers, which sprout in spring, are hermaphroditic and are grouped in white panicles. The fruit is a drupe of about 1cm, green at the beginning and brownish or black at the end of maturing in autumn-winter. This, like the olive of the olive (Olea europaea), it is eatable.
What are their cares?
If you want to have a copy, we recommend you take care of it as follows:
Climate
The wild olive It is a tree especially suitable for mild climates, with maximum temperatures of up to 40ºC and minimum temperatures of up to -12ºC., and where it receives little rainfall. In this sense, I can tell you that, as long as it's been planted in the ground for more than a year, it can thrive with 350 liters per square meter of rainfall per year, which makes it a very resistant species to dry periods. For more information on how to keep it in optimal conditions, you can consult our guide to drought-resistant plants.
Location
It has to be placed outside, always in full sun. You need to be exposed to the star king to have good growth and development.
If you're going to have it in your garden, plant it about 5 meters away from other trees, paved areas, etc. This way, you'll be able to admire it in all its splendor as it grows. You can also learn more about have potted trees for small spaces.
Earth
- Garden: it is not demanding, although it prefers limestone soils with good drainage.
- Flower pot- Fill it with universal substrate, mulch or even compost. To improve drainage you can mix it with 20 or 30% perlite, arlite or similar substrates.
Irrigation
The frequency of irrigation will depend on the climate, as well as on whether it is grown in soil or in a container. A) Yes, if it is in the garden during the first year it will have to be watered 1 or 2 times a week, increased to 3 weekly waterings during the summer, but from the second year it will not be necessary to water as often; on the other hand, if it is in a pot, it will be necessary to water it 2 or 3 times a week.
It's important to water in the evening, especially in summer. This way, the soil stays moist longer, giving the roots all night to absorb the water they need. For more in-depth information on the best watering practices, you can check out our guide on when to water outdoor plants.
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It is interesting to fertilize the wild olive tree throughout the growing season, that is, from spring to late summer / early fall. Use organic products for this, such as mulch or earthworm humus, especially if you want to taste its fruits. You can also apply specific fertilizers for olive trees at the recommended doses, with the help of our Guide to growing fruit trees at home.
If you are going to fertilize it with fertilizers, for example one for fruit trees (available for sale), follow the instructions specified on the product packaging to avoid problems.
Multiplication
Multiplies relatively easily by seeds in spring, and also in autumn if it is warm. The step by step to follow is as follows:
- First, the seed is extracted from the fruit, and it is cleaned well with water.
- Then, for example, a seedling tray or a pot is filled with universal substrate or seedbed soil.
- Then it is watered consciously.
- Then, the seeds are placed on the surface, avoiding making piles, and covered with a thin layer of substrate so that they are not exposed.
- Finally, a little sulfur is sprinkled on and the seedbed is placed outside, in full sun.
They will begin to germinate in 1 to 2 months. For more information on propagation, please consult our Guide to pests of wild olive trees.
Planting or transplanting time
The best time is at spring, when the frosts have passed.
Pruning
Late winter Remove dead and diseased branches using tools previously disinfected with rubbing alcohol or a few drops of dish soap. To learn more about pruning techniques, visit our guide to caring for plants.
Rusticity
This is a tree that it resists frosts down to -12ºC, but he likes hot climates better.
What uses is it given?
Ornamental
Image - Flickr / Rodrigo Sousa
It's a plant decorative, easy to maintain and very rustic. It is perfect for xero gardens, and even for pots. In addition, having small leaves and slow growth, it is appreciated in the world of bonsai. You can also learn about others small trees for pots and their care.
Culinary
Its fruits, although small, are often served in the bars and restaurants where it originates. they are edibleIts flavor is similar to that of the common olive, very pleasant. If you'd like to learn more about the use of olive trees and their fruits, check out our guide on dryland crops.
Wild olive oil
You should know that wild olive oil is made with the fruits, which is perfect for seasoning meat and fish dishes. Its properties are:
- Helps lower cholesterol
- Strengthens the immune system
- Effective in regulating blood sugar levels
- Prevents premature aging of the skin
- Serves to treat dermatitis
Where to buy an olive tree?
Outside of its place of origin, it can be difficult to get one in a nursery, so if you have problems acquiring it, do not worry. From here you can get it:
