Black Olive

Black olive, also called oxhorn bucida, is an evergreen shade tree unrelated to the edible olive. Its smooth trunk and strong branches carry dark green, leathery leaves in dense clusters; the crown begins pyramidal and becomes rounded or oval with age. Small pale flowers are followed by dark fruit, and fallen fruit can stain hardscape beneath the canopy. ## Mature character and placement The [UF/IFAS Extension profile](https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ST102) treats *Terminalia buceras* as the accepted name and *Bucida buceras* as a synonym. It gives a mature height of 40–50 feet and spread of 35–50 feet, with USDA zones 10B–11. The reported dimensions are roughly 12.2–15.2 m tall by 10.7–15.2 m wide. The tree grows in full sun to partial shade and tolerates moist, well-drained sand, loam, or clay. ## Landscape considerations UF/IFAS lists shade, street, and specimen uses in frost-free areas. It warns that fallen fruit and leaves create litter, and that fruit tannin can stain patios, sidewalks, and parked vehicles. Its regional guidance is specific: manage the tree to prevent escape in South Florida, while it is not currently considered a problem in Central and North Florida. ## Maintenance Choose a site with room for a broad mature crown and keep the root zone moist but well drained while the tree establishes. UF/IFAS recommends structural pruning to develop strong branch architecture. Plan cleanup beneath fruiting trees, especially over paving or parking areas, and check local guidance before planting in regions where it may escape cultivation.