How Big Do Olive Trees Grow?

Considering getting an olive tree and wondering just how tall they can get? That’s exactly what we’re going to delve into here.

With so many different varieties of olives out there – and so many variables at play when growing them – it’s hard to put an ‘average’ figure on how tall they can be. For example, olives grown in pots or containers will never grow as tall as those planted in the ground – and the tallest specimens are always likely to appear in their native environments where the conditions are ideal year-round.

Average olive tree heights

Generally speaking, an olive tree planted in the ground can grow to a height of between 20 and 30 feet, while those grown in containers typically top out at around five or six feet. There are outliers, though, with some olives breaking the 40-foot barrier (although this isn’t a common occurrence).

How long does it take for an olive tree to reach this height?

It’s possible for a mature olive tree to reach its maximum height after around 15 years, depending on the conditions it’s grown in. This isn’t always the case, though. Annual growth rates can vary from 2 to 12 inches once the tree matures.

How tall is Britain’s tallest olive tree?

The tallest known olive tree in the UK is currently available to buy here at Olive Grove Oundle! This marvellous, exquisite tree is 27 feet tall and weighs in at 7.5 tons, comfortably towering over all our other trees. It has a circumference of 4 metres.

It’s estimated to be between 850 and 1,000 years old and originated from Elche in Spain – prime olive tree territory.

You can learn more about our complete range of olive trees by browsing our website. Got any questions or unable to find what you’re looking for? Contact us today – we’re here to help find you the perfect olive tree.