| The
olive tree is a very hardy evergreen and can be found growing
and thriving in conditions which would kill other fruit
trees. |
When
the olive tree is in bloom, it is covered with groups of
small white, sweet- smelling flowers. The trees blossom
from April until June. |
The
olives ripen and can be harvested from late October to January,
depending on the region. In regions at risk of an
early frost that could damage the fruit, the harvest is
early. In late harvest regions, it is crucial that
the fruit not become overripe. |
Olives
are comprised of three components: oil
(15-25%); solids consisting mainly
of cellulose, proteins and sugars (25-35%); and water. |
