10 Picholine Olive Seeds - French Heirloom for Bonsai & Mediterranean Gardens

Picholine olive seeds offer a chance to grow a classic French heirloom variety known for its small, flavorful fruit and attractive evergreen foliage. Native to the Mediterranean, the Picholine olive is valued both for its culinary olives and its graceful form, making it a favorite for bonsai enthusiasts and gardeners seeking a touch of Provence. These seeds are ideal for those interested in growing their own olive tree, whether as a potted specimen, a bonsai project, or an addition to a warm-climate garden.

With patience and proper care, Picholine olive seeds can develop into hardy, long-lived trees that provide year-round interest. The trees feature silvery-green leaves and a gnarled trunk over time, adding texture and character to any landscape. Whether you're an experienced grower or a curious beginner, these seeds offer a rewarding gardening experience.

Plant Features

• Heirloom variety from France, prized for its small, high-quality olives
• Evergreen tree with silvery-green foliage and a picturesque growth habit
• Well-suited for bonsai cultivation and container growing
• Drought-tolerant once established, ideal for Mediterranean-style gardens
• Produces fruit that can be cured and enjoyed, though patience is required

Growing Information

• Botanical Name: Olea europaea 'Picholine'
• Plant Type: Evergreen fruit tree
• Sunlight: Full sun
• Soil: Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
• Water Requirements: Moderate; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings
• Growth Habit: Upright, spreading canopy
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 8-11
• Bloom Season: Spring
• Mature Height: 20-30 feet in ground; smaller in containers
• Germination Requirements: Scarification and stratification recommended for best results
• Spacing: 15-20 feet apart for orchard planting

Planting & Care

To grow Picholine olives from seed, start by scarifying the seeds (lightly nicking the hard outer shell) and soaking them in warm water for 24 hours. Stratify by placing seeds in a moist medium in the refrigerator for 4-6 weeks to mimic winter conditions. Sow seeds about 1/2 inch deep in a well-draining seed-starting mix, keep moist but not waterlogged, and provide warmth (around 70-80°F). Germination can be slow and uneven, taking several weeks to months. Once seedlings have developed a few sets of true leaves, transplant them into individual pots with a gritty, well-draining soil mix.

For ongoing care, place young olive trees in a sunny location and water regularly during the growing season, reducing watering in winter. Olive trees are sensitive to overwatering and poor drainage, so ensure containers have drainage holes. Prune to shape as desired, especially for bonsai. Protect from frost in cooler zones by moving containers indoors or providing winter protection.

What's Included

10 Picholine olive seeds.