A leading dual-purpose olive valued for plump green table fruit and good oil, on a spreading silver-leafed evergreen tree. Drought- and salt-tolerant once established, it suits Mediterranean and warm-temperate gardens.
At a glance
- Plant type: Fruiting tree
- Mature size: 6 m H × 5 m W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: happy on low water
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Manzanillo Olive
Olea europaea 'Manzanillo' is a slow-growing fruiting tree in the Oleaceae family. It reaches around 6 m tall and 5 m wide at maturity, with evergreen and silver-grey foliage. Cream green and white flowers appear in spring.
Where to grow Manzanillo Olive
Manzanillo Olive suits Mediterranean, warm-temperate and subtropical climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters. It also is a genuinely water-wise choice and tolerates salt-laden coastal winds.
Soil & planting
Manzanillo Olive does best in free-draining and alkaline soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in. For a screen, space plants about 3 m apart.
Watering & feeding
Manzanillo Olive performs well with relatively little water once established. Feed regularly through the growing season for the best crop. During the first growing season, water deeply whenever the upper soil begins to dry, then reduce the frequency as roots establish.
Pruning & care
Prune Manzanillo Olive after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. It clips well, so trim two or three times a year for a formal finish. For most gardens, it is low maintenance.
Using Manzanillo Olive in the garden
Manzanillo Olive earns its place for edible harvests, a feature or specimen planting and a fast screen or informal hedge.
Companion planting & design
Manzanillo Olive sits most comfortably beside plants adapted to low water use and Mediterranean climate. A small cluster gives stronger visual impact than isolated plants scattered through the garden.
Buying Manzanillo Olive
Plant Sale lists Manzanillo Olive as potted plants and advanced specimens. Use the quote builder above to ask about current stock, sizes and pricing.
