Homonym: Olea europaea (Olive)
Olea europaea, commonly known as the olive tree, is a small evergreen tree native to the Mediterranean region. It is well-known for its delicious fruits, the olives, which are used to produce olive oil, a staple in many cuisines. The tree can live for hundreds of years and is admired for its gnarled trunk and silvery-green leaves, making it a popular choice for gardens and landscapes.
The olive tree has significant cultural and historical importance, often symbolizing peace and prosperity. In ancient times, it was associated with the goddess Athena in Greek mythology, and today, olive oil is celebrated for its health benefits, including heart health and anti-inflammatory properties.