Phillyrea angustifolia aka False Olive

Taxonomy

Genus Phillyrea Family Oleaceae Order Lamiales Class Magnoliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Phillyrea angustifolia, commonly known as the narrow-leaved mock privet, is an evergreen shrub native to the western and central Mediterranean. This species belongs to the olive family Oleaceae and is characterized by its simple, leathery, dark green leaves that are arranged oppositely on the branches. In spring and summer, fragrant creamy-white flowers bloom at the leaf axils, which are later followed by purplish black berries. The compact shrub can reach a height of 3 meters and has narrow leaves measuring up to 6cm long. Overall, Phillyrea angustifolia is a delightful plant with its dark green foliage, scented flowers, and striking berries.

Common names

False Olive, Narrow Leaf Mock Privet, Narrowleaf Mock Privet

How to care for False Olive

Difficulty

With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for False Olive, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.

Water

False Olive should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the False Olive prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

More info:
Wikipedia

More Species in Phillyrea Genus

Phillyrea latifolia Phillyrea