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. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool. For a screen, space plants about 3 m apart.
Watering & feeding
Manzanillo Olive is happy on low water, so once its roots are down it needs little supplementary water. Feed regularly through the growing season for the best crop. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
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. Overall 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
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Manzanillo Olive with other plants that enjoy the same happy on low water and Mediterranean climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
Buying Manzanillo Olive
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