Arboretum History Virtual Tour - EUROPEAN OLIVE

Olea europaea       |        Oleaceae       |       European olive

Historical Context:

In 1891, Robert Forbes, the first head of the University of Arizona’s Agricultural Experiment Station, was hired to determine which plants could be grown in the Sonoran desert as a cash crop. In fulfillment of this charge, Robert Forbes planted rows of olives along Park Avenue and later in 1895 along North Roger’s Way. These research variety trials were planted in formal arrangements, similar to the European allees of the time so as to balance the research and aesthetic purposes of the landscape. More than 12 cultivars were proven successful and remain in their original location. They include: Mission, Mevrelia (Morailo), and Manzanillo. These cultivars are well suited to Arizona and have graced this especially green location on campus for over 100 years.

Next Stop ⇒ Bunya Bunya

Previous Stop ⇒ Thornless Honey Locust

Return to Arboretum History Tour Page

Additional Resources to Explore:

• Link to the Campus Arboretum Species Description page
• Link to the Campus Arboretum History Tour page (for booklet, self-guided campus tours, or docent led tour information)