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Can You Grow Olive in North Carolina?

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

Won't grow here

Olive trees cannot survive hard freezes and will not grow as perennials in your zone.

Plant zones

8a–11b

North Carolina last frost

late February

North Carolina first frost

early 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 North Carolina

North Carolina spans the mountains (Zone 5b-6a), Piedmont (Zone 7a-7b), and coastal plain (Zone 8a). Long warm seasons support tobacco, sweet potatoes, and a wide range of vegetables.

See what grows well in North Carolina →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Olive in North Carolina?

Olive trees cannot survive hard freezes and will not grow as perennials in your zone.

What zone is North Carolina?

North Carolina spans USDA Zone 7b (5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a).

When do you plant Olives in North Carolina?

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