ZARD
Country: Iran
Purpose: Dual-purpose (table and oil)
Synonyms: “Zard Zeytun”
Distribution: 1 continent
Asia
Iran: a rooted presence in recognizable olive-growing basins
In Asia, the Zard variety is directly linked to Iran's olive-growing heritage. Reported cultivation areas include basins in the north (near the Caspian Sea) and some provinces in the south of the country.
A "system" variety: part of Iran's traditional core
Zard is among the traditional cultivars considered representative of Iran's varietal landscape. It is not an occasional presence, but a stable reference within an olive system with its own geography and territorial continuity.
TGoP reading: territorial roots and dialogue among similar areas
Within the Gardens of Peace framework, Zard in Asia helps tell the story of a variety defined by specific territories, where the olive tree consolidates through environmental compatibility and local practices. The focus is on landscapes and agro-climatic corridors rather than administrative borders.
Agronomic and commercial considerations: This is the main variety in Iran. Cultivar of high productivity even if it turns out to be alternate. Partially self-compatible. Harvest time coincides with the beginning of autumn. It is a cultivar resistant to cold temperatures and drought climates. Tolerant to verticillium wilt (Verticillium dahliae). The fruit has a peculiarity as it has two prominent lateral lines noticeable by touch.