Black Olive

Frost Tolerance: Killed at 25°F (-4°C), damaged at 32°F (0°C)

Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade

Origin: West Indies

Growth Habits: Evergreen tree, dense foliage, rounded crown, slow growing to 40 to 50 feet tall (12-15 m), 35 to 50 feet wide (9-15 m); spiny stems; dark bluish-green, obovate leaves 2 to 4 inches long (10 cm)

Watering Needs: Moderate water, drought resistant, salt tolerant

Propagation: Layering, seeds (difficult)

The Black Olive can be messy, dropping leaves, flower debris and seed pods. It should be planted away from concrete as its fruits will stain and its roots will uplift sidewalks and pavements.

Blooming Habits:
Small, greenish-ellow, odd smelling flowers, 0.25 inch long (6 mm), very attractive to bees, in spikes, 3 to 4 inches long (7-10 cm), during spring and summer. The flowers are attractive to bees.

Fruiting Habits:
Oval, black capsule, 0.25 to 0.5 inches long (6-12 mm)