Phillyrea latifolia aka Phillyrea

Taxonomy

Phillyrea latifolia, also known as the green olive tree or mock privet, is a slow-growing evergreen shrub or small tree that can reach a height of 8m. This species belongs to the Oleaceae family and is native to the Mediterranean Basin, spanning from Morocco and Portugal in the west to the Levant in the east. Its dark green leaves, measuring up to 6cm in length, provide year-round foliage. During spring, fragrant yet subtle yellowish-green flowers bloom, followed by black fruits resembling olives in autumn. P. latifolia can be pruned into a hedge shape and is popular for its scented flowers and attractive black berries.

Common names

Phillyrea, Green Olive Tree

How to care for Phillyrea

Difficulty

If you're looking for a plant that offers a moderate level of challenge, Phillyrea is a great choice to test your gardening skills.

Water

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

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Phillyrea 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.

Dormancy

During the cold period, it is common for Phillyrea to go dormant, resulting in a slowdown of growth. To accommodate this, waterings should be spaced out more.

Toxicity

There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.

Region of origin

Phillyrea’s native range is S.E. Europe to W. Asia.


More info:
Wikipedia