Why Olive Trees Are Taking Over London’s Front Doors and Courtyards
I recently took a trip to London and, while wandering the leafy streets of Notting Hill and weaving through buzzy boroughs like Shoreditch and Clapham, I noticed something quite delightful… Olive trees. Everywhere.
From chic restaurants with alfresco seating to elegant Georgian terraces and tiny mews houses, olive trees were proudly potted outside doorways, dotting rooftop terraces, and standing like sentinels in smart front gardens. It seems that olive trees in London are having a real moment – and honestly, who can blame them?
Olive Trees: The Ultimate Urban Accessory
There’s something timelessly elegant about an olive tree. That soft silvery foliage, those gnarled trunks, and the Mediterranean charm they exude – they instantly elevate a space. But what really struck me was how beautifully they suit the London look. Whether it’s a minimalist monochrome townhouse or a bohemian bistro, olive trees just work.
They bring that little whisper of warmer climes – a hint of Santorini, a flicker of Tuscany – even if you’re just stepping out onto a street in Zone 2. Maybe that’s why Londoners love them: they’re a slice of sun-drenched serenity in the middle of a bustling city.
Perfect for Pots and Small Spaces
Another reason olive trees are thriving in London? They’re brilliantly compact. Most city dwellers are working with courtyards, balconies, or postage-stamp front gardens. The beauty of an olive tree is that it thrives in a pot, and it doesn’t demand a lot of space to make a big impact.
I saw them lining steps, flanking front doors, and even standing proud on second-storey balconies – all looking completely at home. With the right pot and a sunny spot, olive trees bring architectural interest and greenery without the need for sprawling borders or lawn space.
Low Maintenance, High Style
We all want something that looks good with minimal fuss, and olive trees are exactly that. They’re drought-tolerant, slow-growing, and evergreen, so they look good all year round. A bit of watering in summer and a cosy wrap in a cold snap is all they really ask for – perfect for busy London lives.
And speaking of winter – yes, olive trees can handle it. Especially in the more sheltered microclimates of the city. Just pop them in a well-draining pot and tuck them somewhere out of the worst wind, and they’ll reward you with lush, silvery foliage season after season.
Restaurant-Ready Charm
It wasn’t just homes that had embraced the olive tree trend. I spotted them outside some of London’s coolest eateries – adding rustic charm to doorways, dotting outdoor dining areas, and even appearing as mini groves in courtyards. They help soften hard lines and add a touch of warmth to modern architecture – and let’s face it, they look absolutely stunning with fairy lights after dark.
Inspired? You Can Bring the Look Home
Whether you live in London or not, you can absolutely steal this style. An olive tree in a pot by your front door, a pair flanking your gate, or a cluster on your patio – it’s an easy way to add character and a bit of Mediterranean magic to your space.
And if you’re lucky enough to live in the capital, you’re in the perfect place to enjoy the olive trees London loves so much. Just take a stroll through any leafy neighbourhood and you’ll see them everywhere – living proof that these beautiful trees are as at home in SW3 as they are in Sicily.
