18. Acebuche (Olea cerasiformis Rivas-Mart. & del Arco)

Endemic to Canary Islands

Oleaceae – lamiales

Flowers April-Oct

Usually grows to around 2 metres, but can reach 6 metres tall. Leathery, glossy lanceolate leaves with tiny greenish-yellow flowers that become small black (inedible olives). Leaves used in infusions (diuretic, hypoglycaemic and hypotensive properties). Wood was used by indigenous people for defensive weapons, including the cudgel known as a ‘tolete’. Today, the wood is sometimes used for making walking sticks. 

> vulnerable

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