The olive tree is an evergreen tree in the family Oleaceae, native to the Mediterranean, Asia, and Africa. It is widely cultivated for its olive fruit and has a long history of use in Mediterranean cuisine.
Olive trees can live for several centuries, and some specimens are known to be over 1,000 years old.
Olive oil is one of the most important products of the olive tree and is used in cooking, cosmetics, and soap-making.
The olive tree is also an important symbol in many cultures and has been featured in art and literature throughout history.
Olive trees can tolerate dry conditions and grow in a wide range of soils.
The tree is known for its tolerance to pests and diseases, and it is also drought-tolerant.
The olive tree is a slow-growing tree, and it can take several years for a newly planted tree to produce fruit.
The tree is propagated by rooting cuttings or grafting and can also be grown from seed.
Olive tree leaves have medicinal properties and have been traditionally used to treat various ailments such as fever, skin problems, and headaches.
The tree is also valuable for its ornamental value and is widely cultivated in gardens and parks.
The tree is also known for surviving in harsh conditions and can be found in Mediterranean maquis and the garrigue of the Mediterranean basin.