Olea Europaea on Stem 180cm

Olea europaea is a classic evergreen Mediterranean tree prized for its neat, architectural form and narrow grey-green foliage. In Ireland it performs best in full sun and a warm, very well-drained, sheltered spot—ideal beside a south- or west-facing wall or as a statement tree in a large container. Growth is naturally slow, and in early summer it may produce small, creamy-white flowers; in warm, sheltered summers these can be followed by small fruits. Avoid waterlogged soils, particularly over winter; once established it tolerates dry conditions well and is suitable for coastal gardens. Lightly prune in late spring or early summer to maintain a tidy crown.

This is a standard tree with a clear stem and a shaped crown above. The tree was grown up to this stem height and then pruned to stop the trunk growing taller. The clear stem will remain at the height you receive it at, with future growth coming from the top of the tree.

To help give a clear sense of scale, the stone wall shown in our photos measures approximately 265cm in height. We also use familiar garden tools as visual references: a digging fork (110cm tall) and a hand fork (30cm tall). These are included purely as size guides to help you better judge proportions when viewing the images.

Position: Full sun; warm, sheltered site

Rate of Growth: Slow

Soil: Well-drained, moderately fertile; light, sandy or chalky; avoid waterlogging

Hardiness: Frost hardy in mild, sheltered areas; protect from severe frost and winter wet

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Plant at a Glance