Toward the valorization of olive (Olea europaea var. europaea L.) biodiversity: horticultural performance of seven Sicilian cultivars in a hedgerow planting system

•Autochthonous cultivars trained at free palmetta in hedgerow show high yield.•‘Kalat’ has outstanding performance and can be planted at very high densities.•Higher yields were associated with unique organoleptic profiles of the oils.•This “pedestrian” system can improve olive farms sustainability in traditional areas.