The olive tree and the wild olive are two similar species of trees that can be distinguished by their differences in distribution, size, fruit and leaves.

Differences in their Morphology

Sheet and Size:

Although both have similar leaves, those of the olive tree are larger and longer, while those of the wild olive tree are shorter and thinner.

On the other hand, while the olive tree can measure 15 meters, the wild olive tree does not exceed 3 meters.

Fruits:

What differentiates the wild olive tree and the olive tree most is its fruits, the fruits of the olive tree being large olives that contrast with the small, dark-colored fruits of the wild olive tree.

While the olives of the olive tree are appreciated for their use in the production of oil, the small dark fruits of the olive tree, called acebuchinas, have a bitter and astringent flavor, although they are not used in the same way.

Due to their flavor, these olives are usually used to make pickled olives, local products (jams, sauces or dressings), and they have even been used for medicinal purposes thanks to their natural properties.

                      Wild olive                                       Olive-tree

Crust and Shape:

The rough and scaly bark of the wild olive tree contrasts with the smooth bark of the olive tree. While the olive tree is often grown for a symmetrical shape, the wild olive takes on irregular, serpentine shapes.
 

Differences in their Geographic Distribution

Although the olive tree is sensitive to frost, it shows greater resistance to dry climates and less fertile soils than the olive tree, being more adaptable to wild environments.

For its part, the olive tree is found mainly in flat cultivation areas, unlike the wild olive tree, which is dispersed among bushes.

Uses of Acebuche and Olive Tree: 

Wild olive

The wild olive stands out for its ability to adapt to poor soils, becoming a valuable tool in reforestation and conservation programs.

These wild olive trees are capable of capturing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and preventing soil erosion, making them trees of great help in preserving the environment.

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Olive-Tree

Use of the olive tree in the production of olive oil:* The olive tree is appreciated throughout the world for the production of olive oil from its fruits.

And not only that, but in addition to being highlighted in Mediterranean cuisine for the flavor it brings to dishes, it is also appreciated in cosmetics thanks to its nutritional properties.