Kalamata
Origin Greece
Purpose: Dual
The Tree
Kalamata is perhaps the most famous and well-recognised olive in the world. It is the main table variety of Greece . The tree is of medium hardiness and has an intermediate start to bearing. Because of its low rooting ability this variety is usually grafted. The tree has high vigour and a medium to dense erect canopy.
The Fruit
Kalamata fruit is large, elongated and asymmetric with no nipple. Although this variety is considered dual purpose it is primarily grown for Greek style black table olives and is hand harvested when the fruit has undergone complete colour change. The fruit ripens late in the season. The fruit stands up well to processing and has a high flesh to pit ratio. A superb eating olive.
The oil
Kalamata gives a medium yield of excellent quality oil
Agronomic Characteristics
Kalamata is moderately resistant to cold and can be sensitive to excessively hot climates. We have noticed here in Australia that Kalamata is particularly sensitive to acidic soils and is quite culturally demanding.
