Oleaceae, commonly called the olive family, is a group of flowering plants that includes roughly 25 genera and more than 500 species. Members range from large trees to small shrubs and climbers and are found across temperate and tropical regions worldwide.
Key characteristics
Plants in this family typically have leaves arranged opposite one another and may be simple or pinnate. Flowers are often small and grouped in clusters; floral structure and the type of fruit vary among genera, with examples including drupes (as in olives) and winged seeds (as in some ashes).
Diversity and distribution
The family contains well-known genera cultivated for different purposes. Many species occur in Eurasia and Africa, with representatives adapted to woodland, scrubland, and cultivated landscapes. Overall diversity is modest compared with some plant families but includes several species of economic and horticultural importance.
Economic and horticultural importance
- Fruit and oil: The cultivated olive (Olea europaea) is one of the most significant members, grown for both fruit and olive oil.
- Timber: Trees in the genus Fraxinus (ash) provide hardwood used in furniture, tool handles, and sporting goods.
- Ornamentals: Shrubs and small trees such as privet (Ligustrum), lilac (Syringa), and forsythia (golden bell) are widely planted in gardens and parks for their flowers and foliage.
Taxonomy and notes
Oleaceae belongs to the order Lamiales. Taxonomic treatments vary slightly between sources, so counts of genera and species are approximate. Many species are valued for cultural, culinary, or landscape uses, while others contribute to wild ecosystems as native trees and shrubs.