The olive (botanical name Olea europaea, "European olive") is a species of subtropical evergreen tree in the family Oleaceae. Olive, subtropical broad-leaved evergreen tree and its edible fruit. The olive fruit and its oil are key elements in the cuisine of the Mediterranean and are popular outside the region.

Understanding the Context

Learn about the olive tree and about the commercial production of olives and olive oil. Olive is the common name for a evergreen tree or shrub, Olea europaea, in the flowering plant family Oleaceae, characterized by small size, squat shape, oblong opposite leaves, white flowers, and ovoid fruit. Welcome to Olive Garden Italian Restaurants. Stop by today and enjoy family style dining and fresh Italian food at our local restaurants.

Key Insights

Olives are very high in vitamin E and other powerful antioxidants. Studies show that they are good for the heart and may protect against osteoporosis and cancer. The healthy fats in olives are... What type of olive should you use for which purpose? Our guide to olives explains how curing and color affect taste—and then dives into the flavor profiles and best uses for popular types of olives, from buttery Castelvano and smoky Gaeta to fruity Kalamata and nutty Arbequina.

Final Thoughts

12 Popular Types of Olives and How to Use Them - Martha Stewart With time and attention, the olive tree, or Olea europaea in botanical lingo, flourished and evolved into the hearty tree we know today. Olive trees are grown not from seeds, but rather from cut roots or branches buried in the soil and allowed to root, or grafted onto other trees.