PICUAL
SPECIES: OLIVE
Characteristics
The Picual olive variety is Spain's most important and profitable type, widely grown for oil production in both traditional and densely planted groves. It tolerates cold well and adapts easily to different climates and soils. Picual olives are primarily pressed for oil, with only a small portion used as table olives. Its oil is highly valued for its quality, having excellent resistance to oxidation, which allows it to be stored for long periods without losing its properties. Picual oil is often mixed with less stable oils like Arbequina, and it has a notably high content of oleocanthal, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.
Picual trees have moderate vigor, with dense canopies and upright-growing branches. Depending on the pruning method, the tree can develop into either a tree or a shrub form in maturity. The narrow, silvery evergreen leaves are a key feature, and the tree responds well to rejuvenating pruning. While Picual is self-fertile, having other varieties nearby can increase the fruit yield.
The olives themselves are medium-sized, weighing 2-3 grams, and are elliptical with a pointed end. When ripe, they turn black and are covered with lenticels. Ripe Picual olives contain 23-28% oil, producing extra virgin oil that is both highly resistant to oxidation and highly regarded for its taste. Harvest occurs in October, with trees yielding consistently and starting production as early as the third year. Each tree can produce 100-150 kg of olives, translating to 4-5 tons per hectare.
Picual has natural resistance to Verticillium wilt and shows no significant sensitivity to pests or fungal diseases in typical growing conditions. Mature trees can withstand frost down to -18°C, though younger trees are more vulnerable. During the early years, young trees are often grown in pots to protect them from extreme temperatures. These younger trees should be kept at temperatures around 10°C in winter with plenty of light, minimal watering, and no fertilization. When the trees are strong enough, typically after 2-3 years, they can be planted outdoors in a sunny spot sheltered from cold winds. Young trees can tolerate frost to -10°C, while older ones can handle up to -18°C.