Olive Bouchouk Rkike

Olive Bouchouk Rkike is a traditional Moroccan olive variety characterized by its small to medium fruits, high oil content, and strong adaptability to semi-arid and rocky terrains. Known for its rustic vigor and stable productivity, it remains an important variety in traditional Moroccan olive groves.

Type and Characteristics :

• Fruit: Small to medium, oval, slightly elongated
• Color: Green turning blackish-purple at maturity
• Oil content : 20–24%
• Oil profile: Fruity and aromatic with moderate bitterness
• Use : Mainly for oil extraction
• Ripening period: Mid-season (November–December)

Region of Cultivation :

• Found in northern and central Morocco -especially Fès-Meknès, Taounate, Taza, and Beni Mellal
• Grows in traditional rainfed systems and mountain zones Soil Requirements :
• Adapts to light, stony, and calcareous soils
• Requires good drainage
• Optimal pH :0–8.0

Climate and Growing Conditions :

• Climate: Mediterranean to semi-arid
• Temperature: Tolerant to heat and moderate drought
• Rainfall: 350–600 mm/year
• Sunlight: Full sun needed for optimal oil synthesis

Bouchouk Rkike is a resilient Moroccan olive cultivar producing high-quality oil under semi-arid and stony conditions. Its strong adaptability, rustic character, and good oil yield make it a traditional favorite among small producers in Morocco’s interior regions.