Madagascar olive
Noronhia emarginata

Family: Oleaceae

What it is like

An evergreen shrub or tree. It grows 4-10 m high and spreads 6 m wide. The leaves are simple and greyish-green. They are broadly oval and tough. They are leathery and the edges of the leaves roll under. The leaves are mostly held stiff and upright. The flowers are white with long stalks. They are bell shaped and have 4 parts. They occur in small panicles. They have a scent. The fruit is fleshy with a stone inside. It is 2 cm across and olive green. It turns purple as it ripens. It has one seed.

There are about 45 Noronhia species.

Where it is found

A tropical plant. It is native to Madagascar and the Comores. It grows in dry coastal woodland. It can tolerate drought and salt spray. It does best in full sun but will grow in light shade. It can grow on a range of soils. It grows well by the seaside. It can grow in salty soil. It is wind resistant. It is damaged by frost. It suits hardiness zones 10-11.

Countries/locations it is found in

Africa, Asia, Comores, East Africa, Hawaii, Indonesia, Madagascar (country/location of origin), Mauritius, Pacific, SE Asia, Sri Lanka, USA

How it is used for food

The flesh of the fruit is eaten. It is like an olive but has the flavour of a fresh lychee. Caution: The seeds are probably poisonous.

Edible parts

Fruit

How it is grown

Plants are grown from seed or cuttings.

It grows slowly.

Its other names

Local names

Noronha, Palama waiu, Pohon olive madagaskar, Tsilaitra

Synonyms

Linociera flavicans Vahl; Noronhia chartacea Stadman ex Hook.; Noronhia emarginata (Lam.) Thours. ex Hook.; Olea emarginata Lam.; and others