Green Olive Tree Phillyrea latifolia
ABOUT
Phillyrea latifolia, commonly known as the broad-leaved Phillyrea, is an evergreen shrub with a dense, rounded, and bushy appearance. Its leaves are leathery in texture and glossy, providing a rich green color throughout the year. They are broad, elliptic to lance-shaped, and have a pointed tip, usually measuring about 2 to 4 inches long. The margins of the leaves are smooth, and they are arranged oppositely on the stems. The plant produces small, fragrant white flowers arranged in compact clusters that bloom in late spring to early summer. The individual flowers are inconspicuous, with a four-lobed corolla. After the flowering period, the broad-leaved Phillyrea bears small, oval fruits that start out green and turn to a dark purplish-black as they ripen. These fruits are favored by birds, which help in the dispersal of seeds. The bark of the broad-leaved Phillyrea is gray and can become gnarled and textured as the shrub matures. Overall, the plant has a lush and sturdy appearance, which along with its evergreen leaves, makes it a valuable plant for creating year-round interest in gardens and landscapes.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Oleaceae
Synonyms
Broad-leaved Phillyrea, Green Olive Tree, Mock Privet
Common names
Phillyrea media, Olea phillyrea, Phillyrea angustifolia, Phillyrea latifolia var. media, Phillyrea latifolia var. angustifolia, Phillyrea decora, Phillyrea latifolia var. decora, Phillyrea lanceolata, Phillyrea latifolia subsp. lanceolata, Phillyrea latifolia var. lanceolata
ToxicityTo humans
Phillyrea latifolia, commonly known as Green Olive Tree, does not have a well-documented history of being toxic to humans. There is a lack of reports regarding the toxicity of this specific species when ingested by humans and it is not generally considered to be a poisonous plant to humans. However, as with many plants, individual allergic reactions or sensitivities can occur. It is always wise to exercise caution and avoid ingesting parts of plants that are not known to be edible.
To pets
Phillyrea latifolia, commonly referred to as Green Olive Tree, is not well-known for being toxic to pets. There isn't much information available about the toxicity of this plant to dogs, cats, or other domestic animals. It is not commonly listed among plants that are poisonous to pets. However, the lack of specific information suggests that it would be prudent to prevent pets from ingesting it, as with any plant not recognized as safe. If a pet does ingest part of the plant and you observe any signs of distress or unusual behavior, it's important to contact a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Dark green
Flower color
White
Height
10-15 feet (3-4.5 meters)
Spread
6-10 feet (1.8-3 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Landscape Ornamentation: Phillyrea latifolia, commonly known as Green Olive Tree, adds aesthetic value to gardens with its evergreen foliage and compact shape, making it suitable for formal hedges and topiary.
- Habitat for Wildlife: The dense foliage provides shelter for birds and other wildlife, while its small, inconspicuous flowers can offer nectar and pollen for bees and other pollinators.
- Drought Resistance: Being native to the Mediterranean, the Green Olive Tree is adapted to dry conditions, making it a practical choice for water-wise landscaping and xeriscaping.
- Soil Erosion Control: The Green Olive Tree's extensive root system can help stabilize soil, reducing erosion on slopes and in areas prone to losing topsoil.
- Sea-side Planting: Its resistance to coastal conditions like salt spray makes it a good candidate for planting in coastal areas.
- Low Maintenance: Requiring minimal care once established, it is a desirable option for gardeners looking for low-maintenance plants.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Green Olive substitute: The fruit of Phillyrea latifolia, also known as Mock Privet, can be pickled and used as a substitute for green olives in culinary applications.
- Insect Repellent: The leaves and branches, when crushed, are said to emit a scent that is unattractive to certain insects, making it a natural insect repellent.
- Dye Production: The bark can be used to produce a yellow dye that was traditionally used for fabric coloring.
- Woodwork: The dense wood of Mock Privet is valued for its fine grain and is sometimes used in marquetry and delicate woodworking projects.
- Privacy hedges: Due to its dense foliage and the ability to tolerate pruning, this plant is commonly used for creating living privacy hedges in gardens and parks.
- Topiary Art: Mock Privet is suitable for shaping into topiary due to its dense growth and ability to recover well from pruning, making it a popular choice for formal gardens.
- Boundary markers: In rural areas, Phillyrea latifolia has historically been used to mark property boundaries because of its robust form and evergreen nature.
- Flood Prevention: The plant's root system contributes to soil stabilization on slopes, which can reduce the risk of erosion and flooding.
- Spiritual symbol: In certain cultures, Phillyrea latifolia may be associated with peace or victory and used in ceremonies or as a symbolic plant in gardens.
- Education: This plant is sometimes used as a tool for educational purposes in botany and horticulture to illustrate Mediterranean flora and plant taxonomy.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Green Olive Tree is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Green Olive Tree is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Phillyrea latifolia, known commonly as the Green Olive Tree, is an evergreen species that represents the ability to endure and thrive in various conditions, symbolizing steadfastness and the capacity to withstand hardships.
- Peace: Given its resemblance to the olive tree, it may inherit some of the olive's traditional symbolism such as peace and reconciliation, suggesting tranquility and harmony.
- Longevity: This plant is known for its longevity. It can live for many years, symbolizing a long life and the wish for prolonged existence.
- Nobility: The Green Olive Tree has a dignified and robust appearance, with its broad leaves and sturdy frame, it can signify nobility and strength of character.
WaterPhillyrea latifolia, commonly known as the Green olive tree, prefers moderate watering. During the growing season in spring and summer, water the plant once every week with approximately 1 gallon of water. Ensure the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging. In the fall and winter, reduce watering to once every two to three weeks, allowing the topsoil to dry out between watering sessions.
LightGreen olive tree thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. The ideal spot for this plant is a location where it receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. However, it can also tolerate light dappled shade, making it versatile for different garden spots.
TemperatureThe Green olive tree is hardy and can handle a range of temperatures, typically between 10°F and 100°F. However, the ideal growing temperatures for optimal health and growth are between 50°F and 80°F. This plant can survive light frosts, but prolonged exposure to temperatures below 10°F may be harmful.
PruningPruning the Green olive tree is essential for maintaining a tidy shape and promoting vigorous growth. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Cut away any dead, damaged, or overgrown branches to improve air circulation and light penetration. Pruning should be done annually to keep the tree healthy and well-structured.
CleaningAs needed
SoilGreen Olive Tree thrives in well-draining soil with a pH of around 6.5 to 7.5. A mix of loamy soil, peat, and sharp sand or perlite is ideal to ensure proper drainage and aeration. Regular garden soil amended with organic matter can also support its growth.
RepottingGreen Olive Tree typically requires repotting every 2 to 3 years to ensure it has enough space to grow. It's best repotted in spring before new growth begins.
Humidity & MistingGreen Olive Tree prefers moderate humidity levels but is tolerant of a wide range of conditions. It does well in both dry and humid environments, making it quite adaptable.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place the Green Olive Tree in bright light indoors.
Outdoor
Plant Green Olive Tree in full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness zone
8-10 USDA
Life cyclePhillyrea latifolia, commonly known as Green Olive Tree, begins its life cycle when the seed germinates, usually in favorable conditions of moisture and temperature. The seedling then emerges, developing a root system and a shoot that matures into a young plant. As it grows, it develops a woody stem and a crown of evergreen leaves, entering the vegetative stage. Over several years, the Green Olive Tree reaches maturity and starts to produce small white flowers that are pollinated by insects. Following pollination, the flowers develop into small purple-black drupes (fruits), which contain seeds for the next generation. The plant continues to grow and reproduce annually, with a life cycle that can continue for many years, often exceeding several decades.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Phillyrea latifolia, commonly known as Green Olive Tree or Mock Privet, can be propagated by seeds or semi-hardwood cuttings. The most popular method of propagation for this evergreen shrub is through semi-hardwood cuttings, which are typically taken during the late summer. To effectively propagate by this method, cuttings of about 4 to 6 inches (roughly 10 to 15 cm) in length should be taken from the current year's growth. Stripping a few leaves from the bottom to expose the nodes and dipping the cut end in rooting hormone can enhance rooting success. The cuttings are then placed in a well-draining propagation medium and kept under high humidity and indirect light until roots develop, which usually takes several weeks. After rooting, the young plants are gradually acclimatized to their new environment before being transplanted to their final location.
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