The olive tree, scientifically known as Olea europaea, is an evergreen tree native to the Mediterranean, Asia, and Africa. It is widely cultivated for its fruit and oil. An olive tree can be recognized by its gnarled, twisted trunk and dense canopy of small, silvery-green leaves, which are leathery to the touch. It typically grows to heights between 8 to 15 meters.
Olive trees are not particularly known for a strong fragrance in their wood or leaves, but during the flowering season, they exude a subtle, sweet scent from small, creamy-white blossoms. This fragrance has a gentle floral character with a hint of earthiness, reminiscent of the Mediterranean landscapes where these trees thrive. The blooms attract various pollinators, contributing to the serene ambiance of the olive groves.
Overall, the scent profile of the olive tree itself is mild and may go unnoticed unless one is amidst a dense planting during blooming season. The true sensory experience of the olive tree is more in its visual and cultural symbolism, and less in its olfactory contributions.