Olive varieties
Olive Varieties: A Guide to Some of the Most Popular Types
Olives have been cultivated for thousands of years and have played a significant role in Mediterranean culture and cuisine. With their wide range of flavors and uses, olives are a versatile ingredient that is enjoyed all over the world. There are countless olive varieties to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics and growing conditions. In this article, we will take a look at some of the most popular olive varieties and discuss their characteristics, including their flavor, oil content, and growing conditions. Whether you are looking to produce high-quality olive oil, or simply want to enjoy olives as a table fruit, this guide will help you understand the different types of olives available, and make an informed choice when planting or purchasing olives.
Citronella essential oil:
Citronella essential oil is derived from the leaves of the lemongrass plant and is known for its insect-repelling properties. It is also used in perfumes and aromatherapy. The Citronella olive is a small, round olive with a light green color. They are grown mainly in Italy and Spain and are used for oil production and pickling. The oil produced by the Citronella olive tree is light and fruity, with a strong lemony flavor.
Olive Ravece:
Olive Ravece is an Italian olive variety that is known for its small size and high oil content. The tree is hardy and can withstand cold temperatures, making it a popular choice for growers in colder regions. The fruit is green when unripe and turns black when it is fully ripe. The oil produced by the Ravece olive is fruity and has a slightly bitter finish.
Leccio Del Corno Olive Tree:
The Leccio Del Corno olive tree is a medium-sized tree that is native to Italy. The fruit is large and elongated, with a green color when unripe and a black color when ripe. The oil produced by the Leccio Del Corno is fruity and has a slightly bitter finish. This variety is often used for oil production and is known for its high yield.
Olive Lazzero:
The Olive Lazzero is a medium-sized tree that is native to Italy. The fruit is small and round, with a green color when unripe and a black color when ripe. The oil produced by the Olive Lazzero is fruity and has a slightly bitter finish. This variety is often used for oil production and is known for its high yield.
Pendolino olive tree:
The Pendolino olive tree is a small, compact tree that is native to Italy. The fruit is small and round, with a green color when unripe and a black color when ripe. The oil produced by the Pendolino is fruity and has a slightly bitter finish. This variety is often used for oil production and is known for its high yield.
Olive yield:
The yield of an olive tree will vary depending on several factors, including the variety, growing conditions, and the tree’s age. Some varieties, such as the Ravece and Leccio Del Corno, are known for their high yield. However, it is important to note that a high yield does not necessarily mean that the oil produced will be of high quality.
Olivo Semidana:
The Olivo Semidana is a medium-sized tree that is native to Italy. The fruit is small and round, with a green color when unripe and a black color when ripe. The oil produced by the Olivo Semidana is fruity and has a slightly bitter finish. This variety is often used for oil production and is known for its high yield.
Ascolana Tender Olive Tree:
The Ascolana Tender olive tree is a small, compact tree native to Italy. The fruit is small and elongated, with a green color when unripe and a black color when ripe. The oil the Ascolana Tender olive tree produces is fruity and has a slightly bitter finish. This variety is often used for oil production and is known for its high yield. The Ascolana Tender olive is also commonly stuffed and fried, as its tender flesh makes it perfect for this culinary application.
Olive Ogliarola Barese:
The Olive Ogliarola Barese is a large, vigorous tree that is native to the region of Puglia in Italy. The fruit is large and round, with a green color when unripe and a black color when ripe. The oil produced by the Ogliarola Barese is fruity, with a slightly bitter and pungent finish. This variety is often used for oil production and is known for its high yield. The Ogliarola Barese is also a popular table olive, thanks to its large size and firm flesh.
In conclusion, there are many different olive varieties to choose from, each with its own unique flavor profile, oil content, and growing conditions. Whether you are looking to produce high-quality olive oil or simply want to enjoy olives as a table fruit, there is a variety that will suit your needs. By exploring the different types of olives and understanding their characteristics, you can make an informed choice when planting or purchasing olives.