- Author: Heather Hamilton
The Olea europeaea is a member of the Oleaceae family known as the common olive. It is a slow growing evergreen tree or shrub with a reflective soft gray foliage and is known for its beautiful gnarly trunk, also known for it is drupes which yield oil and marketed as table or pickled olives. It has been cultivated since prehistoric times in the eastern Mediterranean region and is associated with religion, medicinal and nutritional needs. Historically, it has been used medicinally for many ailments including diabetes, hypertension, and bacterial infections. Spain, Italy, and Greece are the main producers. It has become immensely popular in landscape design for its picturesque beauty and drought tolerant features. There are a few varieties available which are considered fruitless which is ideal. The olive branches have become extremely popular in the floral industry as well. They are used to represent peace, wisdom, fertility, and luck. I have been using the olive in a variety of uses but mostly in long table runners and personal bouquets. It is long lasting and offers a beautiful contrast to white flowers.