Product description
The Olive Tree has long been favoured and revered for its various uses from the leaves and edible fruit, although in the UK the likelihood of fruit is greatly decreased to the limited exposure to the sun. The Olive tree is a medium-sized evergreen tree and produces small white blossoms.
These white blossoms are produced in branched racemes, called panicles. The panicles are groupings of loose branches which reach out into different directions. In the right conditions, typical of its origins around the Mediterranean, fruit would follow the normal flowering season in spring. These trees can be grown in grow houses or green houses to produce fruit.
The drupes or olives which are normally produced from this tree turn from green to black as they ripen. The vast majority of the fruit rendered from this tree is used for oil production and approximately 10% of the remaining fruit is left for processing into what are common table olives.
The leaves are duality of colors, with the topside being a delightful green and the underside a silvery-green contrast. As the trees age, their growth and bark often develop a significant amount of character, with each tree developing its own “personality” or growth characteristics.
House Plant Size Guide
House plants come in a wide array of shapes and sizes depending on the variety and maturity of the plant.
6cm/12cm/15cm/19cm/23cm nursery pots are the most common size of pot that they are sold in. This measurement is the diameter at the top of the pot.
12cm potted plants are the most popular providing great value for money and an instant impact. Larger plants that come in pots of 20cm+ are great for making a statement in any room and can represent years of growth to get to that level of maturity and size.
Plant specs, care guide & tips
Key features
Specifications
Instructions
Top Tip
Prune olive trees annually in late winter or early spring to maintain an open canopy and remove any weak or crossing branches. This improves air circulation, encourages fruit production, and promotes an attractive shape. Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring to support growth and fruiting, and consider using a frost cover during colder months to protect young trees from freezing temperatures.
How to Water
Olive trees prefer dry conditions and are drought-tolerant once established, but they will need regular watering during their first year to develop strong roots. Water deeply every 1–2 weeks, allowing the topsoil to dry out between watering sessions. Avoid overwatering, as standing water can damage the roots. During prolonged dry spells, provide supplemental watering to ensure steady growth and healthy foliage.
How to Plant
To plant Olea, choose a sunny location with well-draining soil that is neutral to slightly alkaline. Dig a hole twice the width and depth of the root ball, loosening the soil at the base to promote root growth. Position the tree so that the root crown is level with the surrounding ground, backfill with soil, and firm gently. Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil. Adding a layer of mulch will help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature, but keep it away from the trunk.