The Ancient Olive: A Journey Though Time
The Wild Beginnings: Olive Trees in Ancient History
Long before olive trees graced the courtyards of European homes, their ancestors—wild olive trees (Olea europaea subsp. sylvestris)—thrived in the rocky hills of the eastern Mediterranean. Archaeological evidence suggests these trees have been growing for at least 6,000 to 8,000 years, with early cultivation beginning in regions that are now modern-day Turkey and Syria (Artem Oliva, 2019).
Unlike their cultivated descendants, wild olives were smaller, bushier, and bore tiny, bitter fruit. But they were tough—able to withstand drought, poor soils, and relentless sun. Over centuries, early civilizations began selecting and cultivating the most productive and resilient specimens, giving rise to the domesticated olive trees we recognize today.
A Tree Fit for Legends: Olive Trees in Greek and Roman Europe
By the time the ancient Greeks adopted the olive tree, it had already gained near-mythical status. Legend has it that the goddess Athena gifted the first olive tree to Athens, bestowing upon the city an eternal source of food, oil, and light. The Greeks valued olive oil so highly that Olympic champions were crowned not with gold, but with wreaths made from wild olive branches (Olea oleaster)—a symbol of endurance and excellence.
The Romans took olive cultivation to the next level, expanding its reach across their vast empire, from Spain to the heart of Britain. Olive oil was a staple of Roman life, used not just in cooking but in medicine, skincare, and religious rituals. By 200 AD, vast olive groves covered the Mediterranean, ensuring the tree’s legacy for centuries to come.
The Olive Tree's Journey to Britain and Northern Europe
Given its deep roots in warm Mediterranean landscapes, one might assume that olive trees have little place in Britain and Northern Europe. And for centuries, that was largely true. The cool, damp climate made it difficult for olives to thrive in the wild.
However, the arrival of hardier cultivars and changing climate conditions have allowed olive trees to gain a foothold in British and Northern European gardens. While commercial olive production remains limited, more gardeners are embracing the tree for its aesthetic appeal rather than its fruit. Its silvery-green foliage, sculptural trunk, and ability to thrive in pots make it a perfect feature for courtyards, terraces, and contemporary garden designs.
The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) advises that, with the right care, olive trees can be successfully grown in the UK, especially when placed in well-drained soil, a sheltered position, and full sun (RHS, n.d.). While fruiting may be unpredictable, the sheer beauty of these trees makes them a valuable addition to any landscape.
A Symbol of Timeless Beauty: Why Olive Trees Remain Popular Today
Today, the wild olive tree is a living link to ancient traditions, natural resilience, and refined garden aesthetics. Whether planted in Mediterranean-inspired landscapes or used as striking standalone features, olive trees bring a sense of calm and history to any outdoor space.
With a lifespan stretching centuries—some ancient olive trees are believed to be over 2,000 years old—owning an olive tree is like planting a piece of history. The appeal of these trees extends beyond gardeners; interior designers, architects, and landscape artists are incorporating olive trees into modern spaces, bringing a Mediterranean elegance to homes and commercial properties alike.
For those who wish to embrace the charm of wild olives, planting one (or several) is a statement of style, a nod to history, and an invitation to slow living.
Bringing Wild Olives to Your Home
If you’re considering adding olive trees to your garden, now is the perfect time. Thanks to their hardy nature and adaptability, they can thrive in pots, raised beds, or open landscapes. With minimal care—just occasional pruning, well-drained soil, and protection from extreme frosts—your olive tree can become a centerpiece of beauty for decades to come.
At Ancient Olives, we hand-select the finest trees, ensuring that each one brings history, elegance, and character to your outdoor space. Whether you’re creating a Mediterranean courtyard, a modern rooftop retreat, or a country garden oasis, our carefully curated olive trees will help you achieve a timeless aesthetic.