Olea europaea

Olea Europea, commonly known as the Olive tree, is a slow-growing, evergreen tree with a round shape and a dense crown. The olive is one such tree; its strong link to the Mediterranean, and in particular the Tuscan, landscape mean it is a favourite when creating gardens inspired by this part of Italy or those that are designed around grey foliage and drought hardiness.

Common Name: Olive tree
Mature Height (meters): 4-10m
Mature Width: 4-10m
Foliage: Evergreen, silvery-green leaves with a leathery texture
Fruiting period: Early summer (depending on growing conditions and maturity of the tree)
Form: Rounded with a dense crown
Uses: Ornamental tree, topiary, hedge, feature tree
Evergreen/ Deciduous: Evergreen
Tolerates: Drought, heat, humidity, mild frost, snow
Drought Hardy: Yes
Sun: Full sun
Maintenance: Requires little maintenance, responds well to pruning to maintain its shape and size

Fruiting Period

The fruiting period for olive trees varies depending on the cultivar and growing conditions. In general, olive trees begin to produce fruit after 3 to 5 years of growth, but some cultivars may take up to 10-12 years to start bearing fruit.

The fruiting period typically occurs in late spring to early summer, with the olives ripening in the autumn or winter months depending on the climate. The fruiting cycle of olive trees is affected by factors such as temperature, sunlight, and rainfall. Warm, dry summers followed by cool, wet winters are ideal for olive fruit production.

Soil Requirements

How to plant the Olive tree:

1. Choose a location with well-draining soil and full sun exposure.
2. Dig a hole that is twice as wide and deep as the root ball of the plant.
3. Add compost to the hole to improve the soil quality.
4. Place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil, ensuring that the root collar is level with the soil surface.
5. Water the plant thoroughly and add a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I grow Olive trees in a pot?

• Yes, Olive trees can be grown in pots, but they may not bear fruit. Choose a large pot with good drainage, and use a well-draining potting mix.

2. How often should I water my Olive tree?

• Olive trees are drought-tolerant and require little water once established. Water deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter.

3. When is the best time to prune my Olive tree?

• Prune Olive trees in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead or damaged branches and shape the tree to your desired size and shape.

4. What are the best uses for the Olive tree in someone's garden?

• Olive trees can be used as a feature tree, hedge, or topiary. They add a touch of Mediterranean flair to any garden and are drought-tolerant, making them ideal for dry climates. The silvery-green leaves also make them an attractive addition to any landscape.