Olive Arbequine

Arbequine is a Spanish-origin olive variety that has become widely cultivated in Morocco due to its high productivity, early bearing, and excellent oil quality. It is especially popular in modern, high-density orchards, where it performs well under irrigated and semi-arid conditions.

Type and Characteristics :

• Fruit: Small to medium-sized, oval shape
• Color: Green turning to brownish-purple when ripe
• Oil content : 18–22%
• Oil profile: Sweet, mild, and fruity with low acidity and bitterness
• Use : Primarily for oil extraction
• Ripening period: Early (October–November)

Region of Cultivation :

• Grown in Marrakech–Safi, Haouz, Beni Mellal–Khenifra, and Tadla regions
• Adapted to intensive and super-intensive plantation systems

Soil Requirements:

• Thrives in deep, well-drained loamy or sandy-loam soils
• Tolerates slightly calcareous and stony soils
• Optimal pH :0–8.0

Climate and Growing Conditions :

• Climate : Mediterranean to semi-arid
• Temperature: High tolerance to heat and moderate resistance to cold
• Rainfall: 300–600 mm/year (best under irrigation)
• Sunlight: Requires full sun exposure for high oil yield and quality

Arbequine is a modern, high-yield olive variety prized for its early production, stable yields, and superior oil quality. Its adaptability to intensive cultivation and mechanized harvesting makes it one of the leading choices for commercial olive oil production in Morocco’s modern plantations.