Zuri is the main variety in Israel, cultivated mainly in the Galilee area.
This variety can be cultivated in arid areas and in shallow soil, but has a relatively low yield and is sensitive to Peacocks’ Eye (?) disease. The oil has a rich aroma and taste but has low preservation capacity. It is difficult to extract quality oil from this variety because of its high level of acidity.

This variety responds to improved cultivation conditions and techniques. Especially impressive is the Muhsan sub-variety – originating on the West Bank of the Jordan River, cultivation in Israel began after the Six Day War. The Muhsan olive is an enhancement of the Nabali variety. It is strong, takes root easily, has larger fruit and is suitable for eating. Nabali Baladi and Muhsan are  cultivated extensively using advanced irrigating technology. This variety’s share of the olive market is constantly increasing.

Manzenilo

This type is cultivated exclusively as an edible variety. When the fruit ripens and the pit is free, the olives are preserved in the Spanish style. Quality deteriorates if the fruit is preserved in the Mediterranean style. This variety is ideal for preserving olives without the pit. Suitable for green and black preserves. 

Oil Production Varieties

Barnea

Cultivated by Prof. Shimon Lavie, the Barnea variety is produced from selected Israeli varieties. The Barnea variety produces a large amount of oil. The tree itself is suitable for mechanical harvesting and is less sensitive to Peacock Eye disease. This variety bears fruit at an early stage, and from its third year bears a full yield. An additional advantage – Banea produces very delicate oil which is very durable under normal storing conditions. The Barnea has a 20% oil content, grows quickly and has qualities similar to the Picuel variety, the main Spanish oil producing variety.

Picuel

The most fertile pollinator of the Barnea variety. Gives best results in irrigated cultivation 17% - 18%. Levels will be lower if stimulated at an early growth stage.

Maalot

The Maalot variety is a new and original variety developed by the Volcani Institute. This variety is extremely resistant to Peacock Eye disease. The fruit is too small, on the verge of feasibility: slightly more than 2 grams. Good fertility levels, good taste. Oil is similar in quality to that of Barnea.

Other Varieties

Currently  in tryout stage: Lecino and Prontoe varieties.

Future Developments

Scientists are currently attempting to develop varieties resistant to Peacock Eye and to soil-born diseases such as Verticellium. It is anticipated that these varieties will compete favorably with other irrigated varieties by producing a large amount of quality oil and will also be suitable for mechanical harvest. The Barnea is currently considered the best variety in the world, but it still has some disadvantages. There are currently 25 varieties  in advanced stages of development, 2 that are suitable for pressing, 1-2 classic oil varieties and 1 suitable for both purposes. A new variety is expected to be launched by the end of the year.