Mission Olive Tree

The Mission Olive tree produces edible fruits loaded with antioxidants. While smaller than the Manzanillo fruit, the Mission olive boasts a higher oil content, making it the preferred choice for cold-pressed olive oil in the California olive oil industry.

Aptly named, the 'Mission' olive is a California classic. Introduced to California in the late 1700s by the Franciscan monks, who purposefully planted these olive trees around the Spanish missions, it is valued for its dual purpose. This cold-hardy olive can be pressed for oil production and cured for eating, Described as nutty, mildly grassy, bright, smooth, and mild, the flavor depends on the degree of ripeness and harvest time. The olive oil possesses a slightly sweet and a distinctly buttery flavor.

Olea europaea 'Mission' is a vigorous, erect tree reaching up to 30 ft. tall at maturity but can be maintained at a smaller size or shaped with routine pruning. The narrow grey-green foliage, thick and leathery with silvery undersides, contrasts beautifully with the matured, gnarled, dark trunk. Drought-tolerant, 'Mission' thrives in heat and is winter hardy to 12 degrees F. A very productive variety with a pollinator, start harvesting the Mission olive in the fall; the timing is based on the preferred color, either green or purplish-black, and the intended use, whether for pickling or oil extraction.

Known for their longevity and resilience, olive trees are not only symbols of peace, wisdom, and prosperity but also magnificent evergreen trees. Their picturesque appearance enhances any landscape, whether in groves or as a single specimen.

Popular for its dual uses as a table olive or oil production, the Mission Olive tree makes a beautiful addition to any garden, seamlessly combining functionality and aesthetics.

Comparing fruiting olive trees at a glance:

‘Arbequina’ is grown for olive oil production and is considered a compact olive tree. 
‘Manzanillo’ is grown for fruit consumption and is considered a table olive, producing both green and black edible olives.
‘Mission’ is a dual-purpose olive that can be grown for eating or for olive oil production.