GROSSA DI SPAGNA

This olive tree is quite vigorous, with a thick canopy and pendulous fruit-bearing branches, even more so given the weight of the fruit (averaging 10 to 12 grams). It requires cross-pollination to produce; Pendolino, Maurino, and Nocellare Etnea have proven to be good pollinators. Productivity is good but susceptible to alternate bearing. The large fruits are initially light green, then turn dark purple as they ripen. The pulp is firm with a medium oil content. The drupes are well suited for the preparation of Spanish-style green olives. A decidedly hardy variety, it resists major climatic adversities well; it also demonstrates a high tolerance to scab.