Latin name - Canarium album

This is a fruit commonly grown in China, Vietnam, and Thailand, and now even cultivated in Fiji and Australia.  Not directly related to true olive trees (which grow well in Florida, but prefer a more mediterranean climate to fruit abundantly), the Chinese Olive tree produces a similar fruit.  The fruit is eaten fresh, brined, pickled, and is even used for preserves.  It also can be pressed to extract a useful culinary oil, just like olive oil.  The Chinese Olive is much more productive in Florida’s subtropical climate than a true olive, and may be worth considering for someone who wants to try growing their own olives. 

A Chinese Olive tree is capable of growing to 30 feet tall, but can be kept shorter in Florida gardens by annual pruning.  It is an upright and bushy tree, with bright and glossy green leaves, and a bright red color to the new growth.  It enjoys full sun and ample water especially during the dry season.

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Size: 10’ x 15’ with some pruning, 30+ feet tall if left unpruned.

Sun Requirements:  Full sun

Cold Hardy: 32 degrees

Food Forest Layer: Canopy, Sub Canopy