Olive Tree mini standard /Olea europaea

Common Name: Olive Tree – Mini Standard Form
Botanical Name: Olea europaea
Mature Height: 1.5-2m (in container)
Spread: 80cm-1m
Hardiness: Hardy to -10°C
Position: Full sun, sheltered

Bring the timeless charm of Mediterranean living to any space with these delightful Mini Standard Olive trees, perfectly proportioned for contemporary lifestyles and smaller gardens. Standing gracefully on elegant 50cm stems with naturally flowing, unclipped heads, these charming specimens prove that good things truly do come in beautiful packages. Each tree arrives in a practical 7-litre pot, ready to transform patios, balconies, or intimate garden corners into your own slice of Tuscan paradise.

The clean, classical lines of the standard form create instant sophistication, while the natural, unclipped head allows the tree’s authentic character to shine through. Silvery-green foliage cascades organically from the neat stem, creating gentle movement and ever-changing patterns of light and shadow throughout the day. This natural growth habit offers the perfect balance between structure and softness, making these trees ideal for both formal and relaxed garden settings.

Despite their compact size, these Mini Standards deliver all the romance and Mediterranean atmosphere of their larger cousins. They’re perfect for creating intimate outdoor dining areas, adding instant maturity to new gardens, or bringing year-round evergreen structure to seasonal displays. Their manageable scale makes them wonderfully versatile – equally at home flanking doorways, punctuating herb gardens, or creating charming focal points in container displays.

The beauty of the Mini Standard lies in its accessibility and adaptability. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just beginning your horticultural journey, these trees offer immediate satisfaction with minimal fuss. They’re ideal for renters, urban gardeners, or anyone wanting to experiment with Mediterranean styling without major commitment. As they mature, the unclipped heads will develop their own unique personality, creating a living sculpture that grows more beautiful with each passing season.

Caragh Garden Notebook: Maintain in well-draining compost with added grit for optimal drainage. Water regularly during the growing season, checking soil moisture frequently as container plants dry out more quickly than ground-planted specimens. Allow slight drying between waterings to prevent root rot. Feed monthly with balanced liquid fertiliser from spring through early autumn. The unclipped head requires minimal pruning – simply remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late spring, and lightly shape if desired while preserving the natural form. Pinch growing tips occasionally to encourage bushier growth. Repot every 2-3 years or when pot-bound, moving up one pot size. In colder regions, move to sheltered positions during harsh winter weather or wrap pots with horticultural fleece. These compact trees are perfect for seasonal repositioning – move to sunny spots in summer and protected areas in winter for optimal health and your viewing pleasure.