Maintaining my fiddle leaf fig for six years is one of my proudest achievements. While it may sound trivial, anyone familiar with their care knows how challenging they can be. I longed for one after seeing them in numerous homes of my favorite bloggers, and eventually, they became popular enough to appear at Costco, thanks to my mom's thoughtful gift. However, the indoor plant trend is shifting; designers are now favoring the black olive tree, known affectionately as the Shady Lady.
Discover the Black Olive Tree, or “Shady Lady”
I spoke with Lily Cox, co-founder and CMO of a local plant shop, to uncover the details about the Shady Lady. If you're curious about this trending plant in the design world, continue reading to learn essential care tips!
What is the Shady Lady?
This plant is known by several names: the black olive tree, the Shady Lady, or its scientific name Bucida buceras. With its multitude of small leaves, this tree has gained popularity among designers, particularly on the West Coast. “This plant has been trending for a couple of years now,” says Cox. “If you’ve cared for other plants, especially trees like ficus or fiddle leaf, managing a Shady Lady should be straightforward.”
Indoors, these trees can reach heights of up to 15 feet, so they need ample space to thrive. Native to the Caribbean and parts of Central and South America, they prefer bright light and consistent watering. Although some consider them high maintenance, Cox's experience has been pleasantly surprising. “The Rewild team has found them to be quite easy to care for,” she shares.
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How Much Light Does a Black Olive Tree Require?
Falling for a plant purely for its looks can lead to unfortunate outcomes, as I’ve learned the hard way. If you’re considering a black olive tree, ensure you have a sunlit space for it.
“They thrive in bright light,” Cox explains. “While they don’t need to be in a south-facing window, they do best near south, east, or west windows.” A consistently lit spot in your home is ideal. Light should reach the leaves to keep them healthy; neglecting this can lead to drooping and leaf loss. Fortunately, with a sunny location, your black olive tree can flourish.
“They’ve thrived in our care, dropping very few leaves, which surprised me considering their many tiny leaves,” Cox remarks. “They’re surprisingly well-mannered.”
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How Often Should You Water a Black Olive Tree?
Cox waters her Shady Lady approximately once a week, closely monitoring its soil. “They appreciate attentive watering,” she notes. “Check the soil by inserting your finger up to the first knuckle. The top two inches should feel dry before you water deeply.”
If uncertain about soil dryness, wait a day or two. After 24 hours, check again for moisture. Instead of adhering strictly to a watering schedule, Cox suggests a more intuitive approach to plant care. “I prefer a responsive method over a prescriptive one; it simplifies things,” she advises.
Watering needs will vary based on daily light exposure and the humidity in your home. Establish a routine that suits you and your plant, checking the soil regularly. “Good drainage is crucial,” she emphasizes. “Ensure there's enough space for water to escape from the pot after watering.”
Where Can You Find a Black Olive Tree?
Though the black olive tree is gaining popularity, it's still not widely available in specialty shops. Cox suggests checking with local plant retailers and asking if they can order one for you. “If your shop has strong connections with growers, they might be able to find one,” she mentions. For those lacking adequate lighting, faux options are also available.
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Styling Tips for the Shady Lady in Your Home
The Shady Lady has been making subtle appearances in design magazines. While maximalism and bold designs dominate this year's interior trends, the black olive tree stands out as a top choice due to its refined and gentle characteristics. If you aim to create a tranquil atmosphere or add an elegant touch to your space, the Shady Lady is perfect. “They fit beautifully in homes with a European or Mediterranean style,” Cox explains. “Or even in a West Coast, specifically LA vibe.”
Incorporating a black olive tree can enliven your home. This tall, striking plant is perfect for a living room, entryway, or bedroom. Notably, these trees don’t produce fruit, so there’s no need to worry about harvesting olives! With sufficient sunlight and regular watering, the Shady Lady will enhance your home beautifully.
