About

A more compact and upright form of the typical species, producing branches to 4m (13½ft) and a canopy to 2m (6½ft) across after 10 years. The stems carry evergreen oval-shaped, grey-green foliage and clusters of lightly perfumed, small, cream coloured, fluffy flowers in early summer, followed by green olives when grown in warm areas, which turn black when ripe in autumn. The tree is reputedly more cold tolerant and of growing in slightly more shade than the typical species.

About the genus

Olea are small or medium sized evergreen trees with simple, opposite leathery leaves. Flowers are in terminal or axillary panicles, and are small, whitish and followed by an ovoid, oblong or globose drupe (fruit).

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand, Clay
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4

Plant details

Plant typeTrees
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageEvergreen
Height4-8 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Mediterranean climate plants, Patio and container plants
FragranceFlower

Care notes

CultivationGrows in any well-drained soil, in full sun.
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by seed in spring at a temperature of 13-15°C (55-59°F). Can also be propagated by semi-ripe cuttings in summer
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to scale insects
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely) and Olive scab
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