olive

Evergreen tree belonging to the olive family. Native to Asia but widely cultivated in Mediterranean and subtropical areas, it grows up to 15 m/50 ft high and has twisted branches and lance-shaped silvery leaves that grow opposite each other. The white flowers are followed by small green oval fruits that turn bluish-black when ripe. They are preserved in brine or oil, dried; or pressed to make olive oil. (Olea europaea, family Oleaceae.)

The oil, which is a pale, greenish yellow, is widely consumed; it is also used in soaps and ointments, and as a lubricant.