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olea plant

The olea plant, commonly known as the olive tree, is a classic choice for New Zealand gardens, beloved for its evergreen charm, delicious fruit, and Mediterranean flair. Hardy, drought-tolerant, and adaptable to a range of soil types, the olea plant adds both beauty and productivity to any landscape. Whether you're an experienced gardener seeking to expand your orchard or a beginner attracted to its graceful silvery foliage, the olea plant stands out as a versatile and rewarding addition to your collection.

Kniphofia 'Border Ballet' plants in a cottage garden featuring orange flowers and lush green foliage.

Kniphofia 'Border Ballet' (Hot Poker Plant)

Kniphofia 'Border Ballet' is a variety of the commonly known Red Hot Poker, and is grown for its colourful flowers. Stems rise above the foliage through summer and autumn to bear showy clusters of flowers ranging in colour from orange, red, pink, yellow, and pastel.

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Perennials
Height: 1.20 m
Spread: 60 cm
Flowering time: Summer, Autumn
Tolerances: Extended dry periods, Hardy, Wind
Garden uses: Containers, Living areas, Ponds, Pool areas
Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Riparian
olea-europaea-

Olea europaea

Olea europaea is the classic olive tree, valued for its attractive silver green foliage and its ability to produce olives for both oil and table use. This hardy evergreen tree thrives in NZ conditions, particularly in warm, dry regions. With its Mediterranean look and long lifespan, it is ideal for orchards, lifestyle blocks, and feature planting.

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type: Fruit Trees
Height: 6.00 m
Spread: 4.50 m
Flowering time: Summer
Tolerances: Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy
Garden uses: Containers, Hedging, Living areas, Parks, Pool areas, Screening, Specimen, Topiary
Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Formal, Frontyard, Mediterranean, Modern
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Kniphofia 'Border Ballet' (Hot Poker Plant)

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Agave, Clianthus, and Kniphofia, or related Categories - Acid Loving Plants, Moss Poles, and Plant Labels.

Search olea plant

Why Choose the Olea Plant for Your Garden?

The olea plant presents multiple advantages for New Zealand growers. With its resilience to tough conditions – including coastal winds and poor soils – it's a perfect fit for many garden settings. Beyond its attractive form, this plant is prized for its productivity. The classic Olea europaea is renowned for producing tasty olives that can be cured for eating or pressed for oil, making it a practical and ornamental feature for your home orchard.

Popular Varieties of Olea Plant

When choosing an olea plant, you’ll find a range of varieties, each offering unique characteristics for fruit, growth habit, and cold tolerance. Explore favourites such as Olive Rakino for high-yielding, early-fruiting trees—perfect for those wanting to enjoy fresh olives sooner. The Olive Verdale excels in New Zealand's varied climates, providing a reliable, robust crop. For those limited by space or looking for a compact solution, Olive J2 offers excellent productivity without demanding much room. If you’re after an Italian classic, Olive Leccino is particularly renowned for its cold tolerance and flavoursome oil.

Care and Planting Tips for the Olea Plant

Caring for your olea plant is straightforward—choose a sunny spot with free-draining soil to ensure success. While established olive trees are drought-hardy, new plantings will benefit from regular watering and a layer of mulch to retain moisture. Occasional light pruning will keep your tree healthy and tidy, encouraging better airflow and fruit set. Feeding with a balanced fertiliser in early spring will support robust growth and bountiful harvests.

Landscape Uses for the Olea Plant

The olea plant isn’t just productive; it’s also an elegant landscaping element. Use it as a statement specimen, line a driveway, or create a productive privacy hedge. Its evergreen leaves provide year-round interest, with a beautiful silvery sheen that pairs perfectly with both formal and informal garden styles.

Discover Your Ideal Olea Plant

Whether you dream of harvesting your own olives or simply want a sculptural, easy-care tree, there’s an olea plant option for every gardener. Browse our range, including Olea europaea, Olive Rakino, Olive Verdale, Olive J2, and Olive Leccino, and bring Mediterranean beauty and bounty to your New Zealand garden.


Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.

–The Plant Company

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