Olive Trees in the UK: Choosing the right tree for your garden
As the UK enjoys another spell of Mediterranean-style summer weather, many gardens are taking on a distinctly southern European feel. While this year’s sunshine has inspired more homeowners to embrace Mediterranean planting, olive trees and hardy palms have actually been thriving in British gardens for many years. At The Norfolk Olive Tree Company, we’ve been helping customers create beautiful Mediterranean-inspired outdoor spaces since 2015, carefully selecting mature olive trees and architectural palms that are perfectly suited to the UK climate. Whether you’re looking for a striking focal point, elegant evergreen screening or a relaxing courtyard retreat, there’s never been a better time to bring a touch of the Mediterranean to your garden.
For many gardeners, the appeal of olive trees lies in their ability to create an instant focal point. A well-chosen specimen can transform a space, providing structure and beauty throughout the year.
If you are exploring olive trees for sale, choosing the right tree is important. From mature olive trees with impressive trunks to multi-stem specimens with a softer natural form, understanding the different options available will help you find a tree that suits both your garden and your style.
Why Olive Trees Are So Popular in UK Gardens
Olive trees have long been associated with the landscapes of southern Europe, yet they have become increasingly popular in British gardens over the past decade.
Their appeal is easy to understand. Olive trees combine architectural structure with delicate evergreen foliage, creating a planting style that works beautifully in both traditional and contemporary gardens. The soft grey-green leaves shimmer in the sunlight, while the gnarled trunks of older trees add character and maturity to a garden space.
Mediterranean-style planting featuring olive trees gained attention at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show when designer James Basson recreated the landscapes of Provence for the L’Occitane en Provence garden, inspiring many gardeners to introduce olive trees into their own outdoor spaces.
Many garden designers now use olive trees to introduce a Mediterranean influence into UK gardens, particularly in sunny courtyards, terraces and patio planting schemes.
Different Types of Olive Trees Available
Gardeners searching for olive trees in the UK will find a range of different forms available.
Mature Olive Trees
Mature olive trees are particularly sought after because of their trunk character. Over time the bark develops texture and movement, giving the tree a sense of age and permanence.
These trees work beautifully as focal points in garden borders or near seating areas where their sculptural qualities can be appreciated. For gardeners drawn to trees with impressive trunks and natural character, our guide to mature olive trees explains what makes these specimens so distinctive.
Large Olive Trees
Large olive trees create immediate visual impact. Their height and canopy spread make them ideal for framing terraces, lining pathways or creating a dramatic entrance to a garden space.
For many homeowners looking for instant structure, large olive trees are one of the most effective planting choices.
Multi-Stem Olive Trees
Multi-stem olive trees have several trunks rising from the base, creating a softer, more natural Mediterranean feel.
This style works particularly well in relaxed garden settings where a looser, more organic planting style is desired.
Ancient Olive Trees
Ancient olive trees are true living sculptures. Their remarkable trunks have developed over many decades, often forming beautiful shapes and textures that cannot be replicated in younger trees.
These rare specimens can become the centrepiece of a garden design.
Where Olive Trees Work Best in British Gardens
Olive trees are remarkably versatile and can be used in many different garden settings.
They are particularly effective in:
• courtyard gardens
• sunny patios and terraces
• Mediterranean-style planting schemes
• contemporary architectural landscapes
Placed in the right position, an olive tree can anchor the design of a garden and provide year-round structure.
Choosing the Right Olive Tree
Every olive tree has its own character, which is why many gardeners prefer to choose a specific specimen rather than purchasing a generic plant.
At The Norfolk Olive Tree Company we specialise in carefully selected olive trees, allowing customers to choose individual specimens that bring lasting beauty and structure to their gardens.
You can explore our current collection of olive trees for sale to see the range of trees available.
FAQ Section
Can olive trees grow in the UK?
Yes. Olive trees grow successfully in many parts of the UK and are increasingly popular in British gardens, particularly in sunny positions.
What is the best olive tree for a UK garden?
Many gardeners prefer mature olive trees with well-formed trunks, as these provide immediate structure and visual impact.
Are olive trees suitable for patios?
Yes. Olive trees are widely used in patio and courtyard gardens where their elegant foliage and sculptural form create a Mediterranean atmosphere.
