What are Cloud Olive trees?
Cloud olive trees are mature olive trees that have been carefully shaped using the traditional Japanese art of Niwaki pruning. Instead of a natural rounded canopy, the branches are sculpted into elegant “clouds” of evergreen foliage, creating a living work of art. Increasingly popular in UK gardens, cloud-pruned olive trees combine Mediterranean character with architectural design, making them one of the most sought-after statement trees for contemporary and traditional gardens alike.
Discover our stunning cloud olive trees for sale
Why are cloud olive trees becoming so popular in the UK?
They require far less pruning than many formal topiary trees once established.
☑️ Instantly create a designer garden.
☑️ Evergreen structure throughout the year.
☑️ Surprisingly hardy for the British climate.
☑️ Perfect for Mediterranean, Japanese and contemporary gardens.
☑️ Every specimen is completely unique.
This creative and bold method of pruning is said to represent the true essence of the tree. The Niwaki pruning method helps to integrate trees into their surroundings creating balance and harmony. The art of Niwaki is not to be confused with Bonsai, which means ‘potted tree’. Bonsai trees are much smaller, whereas Niwaki are bigger and can easily be planted in the ground. The appeal of cloud pruning is a beautifully manicured sculptured tree that doesn’t display any type of symmetry. However, a well-executed Niwaki can be highly asymmetric and beautifully balanced at the same time. So, for this reason it kind of creates its own kind of symmetry.
As an evergreen the Olive tree provides year long colour even in winter when most of our gardens are forlorn. The sculptured form of a cloud tree will create interest and beauty year round when other trees are dormant and leafless. An Olive ensures colour throughout winter!
We have one of the UK’s largest selections of olive trees for sale, from elegant patio specimens to magnificent mature trees that have been shaped over many years. Every tree is hand-selected by our family before specialist nationwide delivery.
Choosing the right cloud olive tree
Not all cloud olive trees are created equal. The spacing between each cloud, the movement of the trunk, branch taper and overall balance determine the quality of a specimen. At The Norfolk Olive Tree Company we personally select every cloud olive tree from trusted growers in Spain, looking for natural character rather than perfect symmetry. No two trees are ever identical, making every tree a genuine one-off.
Are cloud olive trees difficult to look after?
No. They require the same care as any mature olive tree, with occasional pruning to maintain their cloud shape.
Are cloud olive trees hardy in the UK?
Yes. Mature olive trees are well suited to most parts of the UK when grown in a sunny position with good drainage.
How long does it take to create a cloud olive tree?
Professional growers often spend many years training and pruning a tree into its final sculptural form.
Can cloud olive trees grow in pots?
Yes. Many smaller specimens thrive in large containers with free-draining compost.
Do cloud olive trees produce olives?
Many do. Flowering and fruiting depend on the variety, weather and growing conditions.
What is the difference between a cloud tree and bonsai?
Bonsai are miniature trees grown in containers, whereas Niwaki cloud trees are full-sized landscape trees that are sculpted to enhance their natural form.
