Black Olive Tree (Bucida buceras ‘Shady Lady’) brings a calm, tropical presence to the landscape with tiered, umbrella-like branches and polished, evergreen leaves. Its naturally layered silhouette casts dappled shade that looks tailored around patios, pool decks, and modern architecture.

Unlike true olives, this Caribbean native doesn’t drop staining fruit—just clean foliage and small, inconspicuous blooms—so it’s as practical as it is handsome. Use it as a statement tree, a wind-tolerant coastal accent, or a container-grown indoor feature in bright light.

Black Olive Tree Care

Give full sun (6–8+ hours) and well-drained soil; sandy or loamy mixes are ideal. Water deeply while establishing, then switch to occasional soakings during dry spells—avoid constantly wet roots. Top-dress with compost in spring and apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer formulated for trees (with micronutrients) from spring to midsummer.

Prune in late winter to lift or refine the canopy and remove any crossing or storm-damaged wood; light touch keeps the layered form intact.

Outdoors, it performs best in USDA Zones 10–11 (9B with protection). In colder zones, grow it in a large container and overwinter indoors in the brightest room you have; protect from temperatures below ~35°F and from blasts of cold, dry wind. Salt- and wind-tolerant once established.

Black Olive Tree Spacing

Expect roughly 20–25 ft tall and 12–18 ft wide in landscapes (smaller in containers). Plant 15–20 ft from buildings, pools, or hardscape to allow the canopy to step out naturally.

For a row along drives or streets, set trees 20–25 ft apart to maintain individual structure. In containers, start with a sturdy 24–28"+ diameter pot with excellent drainage; place planters 3–4 ft from walls so light reaches all sides and shaping is easy.

Why Grow Black Olive Tree?

Architectural, layered canopy that reads clean and modern
Evergreen leaves, excellent wind and salt tolerance for coastal sites
Low litter and no messy, staining fruit—unlike true olives
Reliable shade with minimal pruning once form is set
Adapts to large containers for indoor/outdoor use in cooler climates

A sculptural shade tree with easygoing care and year-round polish—plant Black Olive to add tropical poise and a refined, tiered silhouette to your space.