Olive – Koroneiki

Olea europaea ‘Koroneiki’ | High-yielding Greek olive prized for premium, aromatic oil

The Koroneiki olive, often called the “Queen of Olives,” is Greece’s most famous oil cultivar — renowned for its consistently high oil yield and exceptional flavour. Compact and hardy, it thrives in warm, dry climates and is particularly well-suited to South African growing conditions. Its small fruit produces a beautifully rich, aromatic oil with a smooth, peppery finish — a favourite among artisanal producers and home growers alike.

Plant Care

Sun: Full sun — essential for strong growth and good fruit set.
Soil: Prefers well-drained, sandy to loamy soil; tolerates poorer soils once established.
Water: Moderate — water deeply but infrequently; drought tolerant once mature.
Fertilizer: Feed lightly in spring with a balanced fertiliser; potassium-rich supplements promote higher oil content.
Pruning: Light pruning after harvest to shape and maintain airflow; remove dead or crossing wood.
Top tip: Avoid heavy feeding or overwatering — Koroneiki performs best in lean, sun-drenched soil with good drainage.

Specifications

Botanical name: Olea europaea ‘Koroneiki’
Common name: Koroneiki Olive
Growth habit: Dense, upright, compact tree with fine, silvery foliage
Size: ±2–4 m H × ±2–3 m W (smaller when pruned or container-grown)
Fruit: Small, oval fruit ripening from green to deep purple-black
Oil: High oil yield (up to 25–30%) with fruity, aromatic flavour and peppery finish
Bearing: Consistent and early-bearing; high productivity even in dry conditions
Pollination: Self-fertile but benefits from nearby pollinators like Arbequina or Frantoio
Uses: Premium oil production, ornamental and small-scale orchard planting

Quick Facts

• High-yielding Greek variety with outstanding oil quality
• Compact, hardy and ideal for warm, dry regions
• Self-fertile and dependable — a favourite among growers and oil enthusiasts