Olive - Olea europaea Kalamata

Common Name:
Kalamata Olive

Description:
Olea europaea ‘Kalamata’ is a classic and highly sought-after olive variety, renowned for producing large, almond-shaped fruit with a rich, robust flavour. This evergreen tree features attractive, narrow silvery-green foliage and a naturally gnarled, Mediterranean form, making it both a productive and ornamental addition to the garden. In spring, it produces small, creamy-white flowers, followed by fruit that ripens from green to a deep purple-black. Well suited to Melbourne conditions, it thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soil, particularly sandy or loamy types. ‘Kalamata’ is primarily grown for table olives and requires proper curing before consumption. Once established, it is highly drought tolerant and low maintenance, benefiting from occasional pruning to maintain shape and encourage airflow. Ideal for home orchards, feature planting, or large pots, it brings both visual appeal and edible harvests.

Form:

• Tree - Small

Mature Size:

• Height: 4–6 m
• Width: 3–5 m

Aspect:

• Full Sun

Flowering:

• Flowers in Spring

Flower Colour:

• Creamy white

Key Attributes:

• Edible Fruit
• Suitable for Pots
• Perennial
• Drought tolerant once established
• Low maintenance
• Suitable for Mediterranean gardens
• Attractive silvery foliage
• Long-lived tree
• Ideal for home orchards

Toxicity:

• Not toxic to humans or pets
• Raw fruit is very bitter and must be cured before consumption

Companion Plants:

• Lavender
• Rosemary
• Thyme
• Santolina
• Westringia
• Lomandra
• Salvia
• Citrus