BLACK OLIVE Tree Live Plant Shady Lady Dwarf Hybrid Starter Size (1) 4 Inch Pot Emerald R

The Black Olive is a popular tropical shade tree that is native to Central America and the Caribbean. Although it appears to naturalized in some areas of Florida it is not a true native of that area. Completely unrelated to the edible olive, it is also commonly called Oxhorn in some areas.

Two types of this tree are common in Florida. The Shady Lady is an improved cultivar of the older species tree that is common in landscapes that were established in the mid 20th Century. Although Shady Lady will eventually grow as tall as the species, it grows more slowly.

The reasons for it's popularity as a commercial landscape staple are many. It is highly salt tolerant, develops a large thin trunk covered with thick gnarled gray bark, and puts down deep anchoring roots making it able to withstand winds without damage. The root system does not spread outward so this tree can be safely planted within 6 to 8 feet of walls, sidewalks, etc.

Another favorite use of the Shady Lady is for bonsai.