The Olive Tree

The Olive is a species of small tree in the family Oleaceae, native to coastal areas of the eastern Mediterranean region. Olive trees show a marked preference for calcareous soils, flourishing best on limestone slopes and crags, and coastal climate conditions. They tolerate drought well, thanks to their sturdy and extensive root system. Olive trees can be exceptionally long-lived, up to several centuries.

The fruit of this plant must be treated before it can be eaten. It may be processed either while unripe, to produce "green olives", or when ripe, to produce "black olives", as are used on pizza and Mediterranean-style salads.







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