Olea Europaea Subsp. Africana "Wild Olive" 20Liter

Botanical Name: Olea europaea subsp. africana
Common Names: Wild Olive, African Wild Olive

📌 Product Description

Olea europaea subsp. africana, commonly known as Wild Olive, is a hardy and long-lived indigenous tree valued for its resilience, attractive foliage, and ecological importance. It features narrow, grey-green leaves with silvery undersides, giving the tree a soft, textured appearance.

This species produces small edible fruits that ripen from green to black, attracting birds and wildlife. It is highly adaptable and can thrive in a wide range of South African conditions, from coastal areas to inland regions.

Wild Olive is an excellent choice for creating a natural, low-maintenance, and wildlife-friendly landscape.

📏 Size When Fully Grown

Height: 5 – 10 m (can grow larger under ideal conditions)
Spread: 4 – 8 m
Growth Habit: Medium to large evergreen tree
Growth Rate: Slow to moderate

🌱 Best Growing Conditions

Light: Full sun to semi-shade
Soil: Well-draining soil; highly adaptable to various soil types

Water:

• Water regularly during establishment
• Drought tolerant once established
• Avoid prolonged waterlogging

Feeding: Not required; benefits from occasional compost

Maintenance:

• Prune to shape when young
• Very low maintenance once established
• Suitable for urban and rural planting

🌦️ Planting & Growing Season (South Africa)

Best Planting Time: Spring to summer
Active Growth: Spring to summer
Flowering Season: Spring (small, inconspicuous flowers)
Fruiting Season: Summer to autumn
Climate Suitability: Extremely adaptable across most regions of South Africa
Chill Requirement: Low

🌼 Additional Benefits

• Indigenous and water-wise
• Extremely hardy and long-lived
• Attracts birds and wildlife
• Provides shade and structure
• Low maintenance

🌿 Ideal Uses

✔ Indigenous gardens
✔ Shade tree
✔ Wildlife-friendly planting
✔ Screening and windbreaks
✔ Large landscapes