Olives

Olea

When young stems are whippy, but as they mature branches become wonderfully twisted and gnarled. Each leaf is a simple narrow ellipse, deep green above and greenish-white below. The flowers are very small but massed in pinnacles, so that while not very showy they are conspicuous. They are followed by fleshy fruit, with a hard pith or stone. Fruit can be used depending on variety for oil and eating. 

Height: 6 metres
Width: 5 metres

* Dimensions at maturity

Best suited for Suits harsher sites such as coastal plantings. Olives tolerate many soil types and are very drought hardy once established. Fertile well drained soils will produce better growth and more fruit.