Olea europaea 'Del Morocco' Standard
Standards are a traditional and popular form of topiary where plants have clear straight stems and a ball on top like a lollypop. Olive 'Del Morocco' is a long lived and slow growing evergreen tree that has attractive silver-grey foliage and a gnarled grey trunk with age. Small white flowers are on show during spring followed by green fruit which ripens to black in autumn. Fruit are small to medium in size weighing 3-4g. They have an early start to bearing with high yields and medium oil content.
Cultural
Plants are run up on a central leader and tipped at the top at the desired standard height. Once some bushy growth has formed at the top, the lower foliage is then removed. Clip the top with garden shears regularly throughout the growing season to form the desired shape and to maintain a compact head. The length to the standard trunk will remain at the same height but will get thicker with age. The size of the head with be determining by how often and how hard back you clip it.
Olives require a full sun position and are tolerant of a wide range of soil conditions including poor and rocky soils. Whilst drought tolerant, to ensure maximum fruit yield it is important to water well during flower and fruit production especially if growing in containers. Fertilise in autumn and spring.
Landscape Uses
Standards can be features in garden beds and look fantastic when under planted with low shrubs or groundcovers. Matching pairs look at the best bordering entrances and walkways in containers or in the ground. If planting in containers shorter standards generally look best and tall standard are more suitable to be planted in garden beds. A symbol of peace and happiness the olive tree has been grown for centuries for its fruit, oil and timber. Olives are a perfect choice for Mediterranean, Coastal and low water gardens. Pair with other plants from our Aussie Mediterranean range such as Laurus ‘Flavour Master’ and Westringia ‘Jervis Gem’.
Dimensions
Standard heights may vary. Please see TRADE PRICE LIST for topiary specifications, TRADE CUSTOMERS please login for access.