Uses. The olive tree, Olea europaea, has been cultivated for olive oil, fine wood, olive leaf, ornamental reasons, and the olive fruit. About 90% of all harvested olives are turned into oil, while about 10% are used as table olives.

Why are olive trees illegal?

Fruiting olive trees are banned in some areas of the southwest U.S. because of extensive dropping of fruits. This creates a problematic mess, clogging drains and staining driveways and decks. The fruits also attract undesirable wildlife. Flowers often produce pollen to which many are allergic.

What is the olive tree in the Bible?

It is first mentioned in Scripture when the dove returned to Noah's ark carrying an olive branch in its beak (Gen. 8:11). Since that time, the olive branch has been a symbol of “peace” to the world, and we often hear the expression, “extending an olive branch” to another person as a desire for peace.