SHADY LADY, BLACK OLIVE

The Shady Lady Black Olive (Bucida buceras) is a highly popular ornamental tree in Florida, especially in South Florida and coastal areas, thanks to its tropical appeal and excellent shade coverage. Here’s what you need to know:

Overview

Appearance: Evergreen tree with a dense, rounded canopy and small, glossy green leaves. The Shady Lady cultivar is prized for its elegant, sculpted form.
Size: Typically grows 30–40 feet tall with a spread of 25–30 feet, making it ideal for creating shaded outdoor spaces.
Flowers & Fruit: Produces small, inconspicuous flowers and tiny black seed pods—not edible olives despite the name.

Growth Conditions

Climate: Thrives in USDA zones 10–11, so it’s best suited for South Florida and coastal regions.
Soil: Prefers well-drained soil but adapts to various soil types.
Sunlight: Requires full sun for optimal growth.
Salt & Wind Tolerance: Excellent for coastal landscapes due to high salt and wind resistance.

Benefits

Provides dense shade, making it perfect for patios, driveways, and large yards.
Low maintenance once established.
Adds a tropical aesthetic to landscapes.

Considerations

Cold Sensitivity: Not suitable for North Florida; frost can damage or kill the tree.
Messiness: Drops small leaves and seed pods, requiring occasional cleanup.
Pruning: Occasional trimming helps maintain its shape and prevent low-hanging branches.