Olive Tree
Olea europaea · Oleaceae
Symbol of the Mediterranean, centuries-long lifespan.
Trees · Outdoor Plants · Fruit Plants · Pet Friendly Plants
Updated on 2026-07-17
Overview
The olive is an evergreen tree yielding olives for consumption or oil; hardy to drought and moderate cold.
How to grow it
Full sun, draining soils, shelter from hard frost.
Watering
Regular first 2 years, then very sparse.
Light
Direct sun.
Soil
Calcareous, sandy, draining.
Fertilizing
Olive-specific fertilizer in spring.
Pruning
Late winter, opening the crown to vase shape.
Repotting
Every 4 years if potted.