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Can You Grow Olive in California?

US · USDA Zone 9b · zones 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b

Grows well here

Olive trees grow as perennials here — plant in a sunny well-drained spot and they will thrive for decades.

Plant zones

8a–11b

California last frost

mid-January

California first frost

late December

Days to harvest

Perennial

About Olive

Olive trees are drought-tolerant long-lived and thrive in poor soil — once established they need very little attention.

Plant in the most well-drained sunny spot available. Drought-tolerant once established. Can be grown in containers in cold zones — bring indoors before hard frost. Need two trees or a self-fertile variety for fruit.

Full olive growing guide →

Gardening in California

California spans more climate zones than any other state. Coastal regions are mild year-round; the Central Valley is hot and productive; mountains are cold; deserts are extreme.

See what grows well in California →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Olive in California?

Olive trees grow as perennials here — plant in a sunny well-drained spot and they will thrive for decades.

What zone is California?

California spans USDA Zone 9b (5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b).

When do you plant Olives in California?

See the planting guide for Olive — timing depends on your exact frost date.