Tree
Common olive
Olea europaea
An evergreen Mediterranean tree with silvery leaves and a sculptural trunk, best in full sun and sharply drained soil. Established plants tolerate drought, but need winter protection outside mild climates and fruiting depends on climate and cultivar.
- Size
- 4–8 m high · 2–8 m wideVaries by cultivar
- Light
- Full sun
- Water
- Low
- Winter
- Needs protection
- Seasonal form
- Evergreen
- Maintenance
- Moderate
Before planting
- Allow for a long-lived tree several metres high and wide rather than the size of a young container plant.
- Choose full sun, shelter and sharply drained soil; persistent winter wet is a greater problem than short dry periods.
- In colder climates plan container culture or a protected winter site, especially for young plants.
Why choose it
- Silvery evergreen foliage and a gnarled trunk bring strong Mediterranean structure throughout the year.
- Once established, olive tolerates heat and drought well and can also provide edible fruit in suitable conditions.
Care
- Water deeply during establishment, then reduce watering and let the soil drain between waterings.
- Prune lightly to remove dead growth and maintain the desired framework rather than shearing the tree hard.
- Container plants need more regular water and feeding, plus protection from severe frost.
Good to know
- Fruit set is less reliable in cool climates; a suitable fruiting cultivar and compatible pollination can improve yields.