American Olive Cartrema americana

Wild olive is an evergreen, perennial shrub or small tree in the olive family (Oleaceae). It is found in maritime and inland forests of the southeastern US (including North Carolina), as well as Mexico and Central America. The genus name is compounded from Greek words meaning “perforate nut” and refers to a hollowed depression in the endocarp. The species epithet indicates its origin in North America.

Wild olive tolerates a range of soil conditions as long as the soil is moist and well-drained. It prefers partial shade but tolerates sunnier positions if moisture is present. It takes pruning well and can be shaped as desired. When pruning, keep in mind that next season's blossoms will appear on old (this season’s) growth, so pruning may diminish next year’s floral display. It is tolerant of wind.

Wild olive is found in hammocks and inland sandy forests. It forms a shrub or small tree with gray-brown and finely scaly bark and opposite, smooth, elliptical leaves. In spring, small, fragrant, white flowers with tubular corollas and reflexed lobes are produced on the previous year's growth. Flowers are followed by dark blue drupes that mature in the fall. This plant is dioecious. Consequently, a male pollinizer plant is required to get fruit set on a female plant. The fruits are consumed by various animals, which disperse the seeds.

Wild olive makes a sturdy addition to a native or pollinator garden. It is suitable for a winter garden or a lightly shaded garden. 

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems: No known diseases or insect pests.