Olives are one of the seven native fruits with which the land of Israel is blessed. Olives and olive branches are an ancient symbol of peace. This is a symbol that the waters of the flood are receding and that life is returning to earth. Two olive branches with fruit combined with the seven branched menorah are a symbol of Modern Israel and project its hope for peace. Olives grow in many different places in Israel, and can survive in poor soil that is not hospitable to other types of plants.
Olive trees are also very long-lived.
As an olive tree ages, its trunk begins to become hollow, while its girth expands. For this reason, olive wood is not a good building material. However, because it is a hard wood with an interesting grain, it is often used for small decorative items and jewelry. Ritual items and jewelry made of olive wood give the owner a feeling of connection to the Land of Israel. Olive trees bloom in the spring and are ready for harvest at about the time of Sukkot in the fall.