Olive 'Arbequina' (Olea europea)
Regular price $29.95 Sale price $19.95Delicious and Hardy Olive Tree
The Arbequina Olive (Olea europaea) is a hardy and versatile olive tree, prized for its ability to thrive in a variety of climates and for its abundant production of small, flavorful olives. Native to Spain, the Arbequina variety is known for its adaptability and ability to grow well in both Mediterranean and temperate climates.
The tree is highly productive, yielding small, aromatic olives that are perfect for making high-quality olive oil or enjoyed as table olives. Arbequina olive oil is prized for its smooth, buttery flavor with fruity and nutty undertones. The tree has silver-green, lance-shaped leaves that shimmer in the sunlight, making it an attractive ornamental plant.
Cultural & Culinary Significance
Arbequina olives are primarily used to produce extra virgin olive oil, which is known for its mild, buttery, and slightly fruity flavor. The high oil content of the olives makes them particularly well suited for oil production. The olives themselves can also be brined and eaten as table olives, cured and enjoyed as a savory snack, or added to Mediterranean-style dishes.
Olive oil, especially extra virgin olive oil, is rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants like vitamin E, which support heart health, reduce inflammation, and improve skin health.
Why Grow Arbequina Olive?
- Produces abundant small, flavorful, aromatic olives
- High oil content makes it excellent for olive oil production
- Produces smooth, buttery olive oil with fruity and nutty undertones
- Silver-green, lance-shaped foliage adds ornamental appeal
- Compact, bushy growth is ideal for gardens, patios, and containers
Growing Tips
Plant olives in full sun to part shade and provide rocky, very well-draining soil. Avoid heavy clay and consistently wet conditions. Olive trees are adaptable and benefit from plenty of sunlight and good airflow. Protect young trees from frost, especially in colder zones. With proper care, olives can begin fruiting within 2–3 years, with heavier harvests developing as the tree matures, typically after about 8 years.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Plant Type | Fruiting Tree |
| Harvest Season | Fall to Winter, depending on region |
| Mature Size | Up to 30 ft. tall |
| Soil & Moisture | Rocky, very well-draining soil; avoid heavy clay soil |
| Light Requirements | Full Sun, Part Shade |
| Self-Fertile | Yes |
| Growth Rate | Medium; approximately 1 ft. per year |
| Zone Hardiness | Outdoors 8–11 with frost protection; Patio/Greenhouse 4+ |
| Propagation | Capable of fruiting within 2–3 years; heavier harvests once mature, typically after 8 years |
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