Olive Tree

The Olive Tree (Olea europaea) connects your garden with a surprisingly tangible piece of ancient history. Kew’s collection holds olive leaves from Tutankhamun’s funeral wreath, more than 3,000 years old. Those familiar silver-backed leaves once helped decorate a pharaoh’s farewell. Today, they bring their distinctive shimmer to gardens, courtyards and productive landscapes.

Silver Leaves, Lasting Character

This evergreen tree combines narrow, leathery foliage with a branching framework that develops character as it ages. Older specimens form wonderfully gnarled trunks, while younger plants suit generous containers and sunny garden beds. Its foliage provides interest throughout the year, even when the tree carries no fruit.

Common names include Olive, Olive Tree, Common Olive, European Olive, Cultivated Olive, Mediterranean Olive, Iberian Olive, Edible Olive, Olive Oil Plant, Sweet Oil Plant and Lady’s Oil.

Growing Your Olive Tree

Choose full sun and freely draining soil. A warm, sheltered position supports healthy growth, while a large container offers an option for smaller spaces. Water young trees regularly as their roots establish. Established olives tolerate dry conditions, although container plants still need consistent attention.

Prune lightly to maintain shape and remove damaged branches. Keep drainage holes clear, and avoid leaving pots standing in water. Give the canopy room to develop rather than squeezing it into a shaded corner.

Olive Tree Harvests and Kitchen Pairings

Fresh olives deliver a surprise: they taste intensely bitter straight from the branch. Curing transforms them into the familiar table olives we enjoy. Follow a reliable preserving recipe when preparing your harvest.

Fruit production depends on the variety, growing conditions and pollination. Some varieties benefit from a compatible second tree, so avoid assuming every plant will crop alone.

Pair your planting with our Rosemary Plant for a Mediterranean-inspired edible garden. Together, they offer contrasting foliage and ingredients for future kitchen experiments. Grow the olive for its enduring structure, then enjoy the extra satisfaction when conditions reward you with fruit.