Olive Tree

Scientific Name: Olea europaea

Category: tree

Olive Tree

Brief Description

An evergreen tree known for its small, silvery-green leaves and edible drupe fruits.

Characteristics

Small tree with gnarled, twisted trunks that become more pronounced with age. Leaves are opposite, leathery, lance-shaped, dark green on top and silvery-grey underneath.

Habitat

Typically found in Mediterranean climates with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Thrives in well-drained, rocky soils.

When to Find It

Evergreen; flowers in late spring with small white blossoms. Fruits ripen in autumn and early winter.

Conservation Status

Least Concern (though many ancient groves are protected)

Ecological Role

A keystone species in Mediterranean ecosystems, providing food and shelter for various birds and insects. It is highly drought-resistant.

Easily Confused With

Russian Olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia), which has simpler, non-woody trunk structures and different fruit, or Oleander, which has longer leaves and toxic sap.

Observation Tips

Look for the characteristic silvery shimmer of the leaves when the wind blows, showing the pale undersides.

Interesting Facts

Olive trees are incredibly long-lived; some specimens in the Mediterranean are estimated to be over 2,000 years old and still produce fruit.