Olea europaea - Loose Head (Olive Tree)

Common name: Olive Tree

Description: This iconic Mediterranean evergreen tree brings a touch of the warm south to British gardens with its distinctive silvery-grey foliage and gnarled, characterful bark. The narrow, lance-shaped leaves have a grey-green upper surface and silvery underside, creating a shimmering effect in the breeze. In late spring to early summer, small fragrant cream-white flowers appear in clusters, followed by the classic green fruits that ripen to black in autumn. Whilst olives will fruit in the UK, they require a long hot summer to fully ripen. The architectural form and Mediterranean associations make this an excellent specimen tree for sunny courtyards, gravel gardens, or large containers on patios.

Other benefits: architectural form, drought tolerant once established, edible fruit in favourable conditions, excellent for Mediterranean-style planting

Wildlife attraction: bees, pollinators

Height & spread (approx.) at 10 years: 2.5m x 1.5m (in UK climate)

Position: full sun essential; requires a warm, sheltered position

Soil pH: adaptable to various soils; performs well in neutral to alkaline conditions

Moisture: low to moderate watering required; highly drought tolerant once established; must have well-drained soil

Winter hardiness: hardy to -10°C; benefits from winter protection in colder areas