Other names: Olea Europaea Africana, Common Olive, Purple Olivo
Grow Zones: 8,9,10,11
Everyone should have their own olive tree. Olives are so useful...and so are their branches!
The Olea Europaea Africana purple olive tree (if not grown for bonsai), grows to a medium height of 25 ft tall and 20 ft wide. It is a savory common eating olive that is a staple for food, nutrition and oil. The leaves and bark are medicinal as well (more about that below). Fruits turn from a green to a dark purple when ripe. Like all olives, curing is required before eating.
Medicinal Uses of the Africana Olive Tree:
The phytochemicals of the leaves, stems, buds and branches are responsible for all of the medicinal benefits of the tree; which is comprised of: Tannins, alkaloids, flavonoids, anti-oxidants and therapeutic essential oils. The use of the olive tree for medicinal benefits in Africa is still reported to be at 80%. This is likely because it is easily accessible and free of cost. Uses for the leaves include: Gingivitis mouthwash, inflammatory issues, fever, malaria, diabetes and bacterial infections. The bark is used to kill tapeworms and the olive oil is rubbed on insect bites and on skin burns.
These trees are a must-have for edible and medicinal landscapes. Not to mention they just beautiful too.
Seeds are fresh and collected from a professional tree grove grower. They boast a high germination rate considering tree seeds don't usually germinate at a high rate like this. YES, YOU CAN grow your own olive tree from seed. Save big by purchasing them today with free shipping, at an unbeatable price!
More About and Care for the Common Olive Africana:
O. Euro. Africana is a perennial evergreen that grows well in full sun. These trees will tolerate some shade however. The branches are described as having dark green glossy leaves and light yellow flowers that bloom before fruiting. Once started, an olive tree can also tolerate drought conditions and low nutrient soil. This species of Olea is perfect for hot-weathered climates. Acceptable soil types are sand, loam and heavy clay, as long as proper drainage is evident. Mulching the area is recommended.