Olive trees are more than just beautiful—they’re resilient, evergreen symbols of peace and heritage. Whether you prefer the wild elegance of Olea africana or the silvery charm of Olea europaea, these trees add character and structure to your garden, patio, or indoor space.
Olea Africana – The African Wild Olive
Native to Sub-Saharan Africa, the African wild olive tree is revered for its drought tolerance, dense foliage, and cultural significance. While its fruits are smaller and less edible than Mediterranean olives, it’s a favorite for native landscaping, hedges, and biodiversity support.
Popular Types of Olea Africana:
Wild Olive Standard: A tall, single-stemmed tree ideal for formal gardens and borders.
Multi-Stem Bush Olive: Great for hedging and natural-style gardens.
Olea Europaea – The European Olive Tree
This classic olive species is perfect for warm climates and sun-filled patios. It grows well in large pots or directly in the ground, and with the right care, it may produce edible fruit even outside its native Mediterranean habitat.
Popular Varieties of Olea Europaea:
Arbequina: Compact, fruit-bearing, and ideal for container growing.
Koroneiki: Known for its small, flavorful olives and dense foliage.
Manzanilla: Produces classic table olives with beautiful silvery-green leaves.
Picholine: A French variety prized for both oil and ornamental use.
Olive Tree Care Tips
Sunlight: Needs at least 6 hours of full sun daily.
Soil: Use well-draining soil—loamy or sandy works best.
Watering: Let the topsoil dry before watering. Olive trees don’t like soggy roots.
Pruning: Prune lightly to shape and improve airflow.
Container Growing: Use large pots with drainage holes for patios or balconies.