Olive Haouzia

Olive Haouzia is a Moroccan improved olive variety selected from the Picholine Marocaine to enhance productivity, oil quality, and tolerance to abiotic stress. It is highly valued for its excellent and regular yields, high oil content, and good adaptability to diverse environments. Developed by Moroccan agricultural research institutions, Haouzia has become a reference cultivar for intensive and modern olive oil production.

Type and Characteristics :

• Botanical name: Olea europaea L.
• Variety name : Haouzia
• Origin: National selection from Picholine Marocaine
• Fruit type: Medium-sized, oval, slightly asymmetric
• Color: Green turning to purplish-black when ripe
• Oil content : 20–24%
• Oil characteristics: Fruity, harmonious taste with light bitterness and spiciness
• Use: Mainly for olive oil production, occasionally for table olives
• Ripening period: Mid-season (November–December)

Region of Cultivation :

• Main regions: Meknès, Taounate, Marrakech-Safi, Beni Mellal, Tadla, and Haouz plains
• Performs well under rainfed and irrigated systems across Mediterranean and semi-arid zones

Soil Requirements :

• Grows best in deep, well-drained loamy or sandy-loam soils
• Adapts to slightly calcareous and rocky soils
• Optimal pH : 0–8.0
• Sensitive to poorly drained or saline soils Climate and Growing Conditions :
• Climate: Mediterranean to semi-arid
• Temperature: High heat tolerance and moderate frost resistance
• Rainfall: 400-700 mm/year; irrigation ensures optimal yield
• Sunlight: Requires full sun exposure for high oil accumulation
• Resistance: High resilience to drought and irregular rainfall

Agronomic and Technical Features:

• Yield potential: 6-8 tons/ha (irrigated); 3–5 tons/ha (rainfed)
• Oil yield : 18-22%
• Tree vigor : Medium to strong
• Productivity: High and regular; less alternate bearing than traditional Picholine
• Pests/Diseases: Good tolerance to peacock spot (Spilocaea oleaginea) and olive knot

Olive Haouzia is an improved Moroccan olive variety that combines excellent oil productivity, stability, and adaptability. Derived from the Picholine Marocaine, it is ideal for modern and intensive orchards due to its high oil content, consistent yields, and tolerance to drought and heat. Its fruity, balanced oil profile makes it a top choice for premium olive oil production in Morocco and beyond.