Olive trees have been a staple of Mediterranean life for over 3,000 years. As you can imagine, after centuries of cultivation, the variety of olives out there is absolutely massive! Each type brings something different to the table, especially when it comes to the flavor and quality of the oil. One of the true legends in the olive world is the Hojiblanca, a variety native to the sunny hills of Andalusia, Spain.
A True Kitchen Classic
The name “Hojiblanca” literally translates to “white leaf.” If you ever see one in person, you’ll notice the foliage has a beautiful, silvery-white shimmer that’s even brighter than your typical olive tree. In Andalusian cities like Seville, Cordoba, and Malaga, these olives are famous for their mild, smooth flavor. Because they aren’t overly bitter, they aren’t just used for high-end oils—they are also a favorite for snacking on as table olives.
A Variety That Craves the Heat
Hojiblanca olives make up about 16 percent of the total olive harvest in Andalusia. Because the fruit is so high-quality, it’s usually harvested by hand once it’s perfectly ripe. This extra care means the oil and olives tend to be a bit more expensive, but they are definitely worth the splurge! You might occasionally see people online claiming that Hojiblanca trees are cold-hardy, but don’t let that fool you. Andalusia is one of the hottest, driest spots in Southern Europe. In cooler temperate climates, these sun-loving trees usually won’t survive the winter.
Better Choices for Your Home Garden
If you’re looking to add an olive tree to your patio or balcony, you’ll want to choose a variety that can handle a little bit of a chill. Even then, it’s always best to keep them in a pot rather than in the ground. This way, you can move them to a protected spot if a long freeze hits. Here are a few varieties that are much better suited for home gardeners:
- Leccino
- Coratina
- Ascolana
- Aglandaou
- Bouteillan
- Picual
