Smaller growing tree. El Greco is probably the most compact olive currently available. Reliable and heavy cropper, ideal for topiary. Requires hot summers and cold winters. Clusters of fluffy white flowers in early summer.

Fruit

Large sized fruit and heavy crops. Good oil content. Fruit used mainly for pickling.

Food Value

High in anti-oxidants. Olive oil reduces bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol.

Cultural

Stake well to prevent wind damage. Olives will grow in most soil conditions providing adequate moisture is given during flowering and fruit set.

Fertilise tree in autumn and again in spring with with high nitrogen based fertiliser (Citrus). Apply 200g per tree per year and increase 200gm per year upto 2kg in total.

Pruning for topiary requires about 3 trims per season, or less if restricted in a pot. Otherwise in years 2-3 remove damaged branches, branches growing into the canopy and branches below 900mm from the ground. In years 4-6 develop vase shape maintaining an open canopy for sunlight.

Mature trees - prune to assist harvesting and keep tree open to assist air movement.

Pollination

Self fertile