Olive trees have long been symbols of peace, prosperity, and endurance. Now, these Mediterranean beauties are finding their way indoors, bringing elegance and a touch of rustic charm into modern living spaces. An olive tree indoor plant is not only aesthetically pleasing, but it is also a surprisingly resilient and rewarding addition to your home. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about caring for an indoor olive tree, from selecting the right variety to proper placement, watering, pruning, and managing pests.
Growing an olive tree indoors is quite an easy task. It has become very popular as a home decor plant. Some of its qualities undoubtedly make it an excellent home plant, such as its silvery leaves, long lifespan, and ability to thrive with minimal care. If the plant receives the right amount of light and is properly looked after, the olive tree indoor plant can enhance your home’s beauty and atmosphere for 10 to 20 years or more.
Why Choose an Olive Tree as an Indoor Plant?
Olive trees (Olea europaea) are evergreen trees native to the Mediterranean, known for their silver-green foliage and gnarled trunks. Keeping an olive tree as an indoor plant offers many benefits. Its green-silver leaves add a modern and calming beauty to your home. Indoor olive trees are long-living, slow-growing plants that don’t require much pruning.
They can survive in low-light conditions, but if given full sunlight, they grow much faster. These trees need relatively little water and prefer slightly dry soil, making them ideal for busy people who want a low-maintenance home plant.
Best Olive Tree Varieties for Indoor Growing
Not all olive trees are well-suited for indoor environments. Some grow too tall or require more sunlight than your living room might offer. Here are the top varieties ideal for indoor growth:
- Arbequina – Produces fruit quickly and is small in size, making it well-suited for growing indoors.
- Koroneiki – A very short tree that grows well in pots.
- Little Ollie – Perfect for decorative purposes, although it does not bear fruit. This variety adapts easily to indoor environments, particularly in low-light conditions and small spaces.
General information about the Olive Tree
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Olive Tree |
| Scientific Name | Olea europaea |
| Plant Type | Evergreen Tree / Shrub |
| Family | Oleaceae |
| Native Region | Mediterranean Basin |
| Mature Outdoor Height | 20–30 feet (6–9 meters) |
| Indoor Height | 4–6 feet (1.2–1.8 meters), depending on variety and pruning |
| Growth Rate | Slow to moderate |
| Leaves | Narrow, silvery-green, leathery |
| Flowers | Small, white to yellowish, fragrant |
| Fruit | Olives (green to black when ripe) |
| Blooming Season | Late spring to early summer |
| Lifespan | 50+ years; some can live for centuries |
| Hardiness Zones | USDA Zones 8–11 (outdoors); grown indoors elsewhere |
| Preferred Light | Full sun; very bright indoor light |
| Watering Needs | Moderate; prefers to dry slightly between waterings |
| Soil Requirements | Well-draining soil, slightly alkaline to neutral |
| Special Features | Drought-tolerant once established; symbolic plant; edible fruit |
Best olive tree cultivars for indoor cultivation
Not all olive trees are suitable for life indoors. To grow a successful olive tree house plant, the proper tree needs to be chosen. Dwarf varieties, slow-growing trees, and container-tolerant ones are the most well-suited for living indoors as a houseplant. Of these, Arbequina is the most popular olive tree house plant due to its dwarf characteristics and low maintenance, making it ideal for beginners. Although Picholine and Mission olive trees can be cultivated indoors, they require more space and thrive better in larger rooms. If cultivating for purposes of ornamentation, small-leaf varieties always make great house plants—they’re tidy and compact in pots.
What You’ll Need to Cultivate an Olive Tree as an Indoor Houseplant
An indoor plant, an olive tree, to begin with, collect the following:
- A young and healthy olive sapling
- Large pot (12-14 inches in diameter and height) with holes for drainage
Sandy or gritty potting mix (mix cactus mix with ordinary potting mix) - A bright, sunlit area indoors
- A grow light (optional for homes that have low lighting
A watering can for normal watering - Fruit tree fertiliser (apply during the active growth period)
- Pruning scissors are used to maintain the shape and dimensions
Humidity tray or room humidifier (in case of overly dry air indoors - Patience, since they grow slowly and will not produce fruit for years
How to Plant Your Olive Tree Indoor Plant
Placing an olive tree house plant indoors is uncomplicated and rewarding. Begin with a layer of pebbles or shattered pottery at the bottom of the pot to ensure proper drainage. Fill the pot halfway with potting soil that drains well. Carefully lift the sapling from the nursery pot and place it in the centre of the new container. The crown of the root ball should rest a little below the container rim. Fill the sides with soil and gently firm them down. Water the indoor plant well and drain excess water.
Indoor Olive Tree Light Requirements
The major need for a healthy indoor olive tree plant is light. The trees should get 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Place your indoor house plant next to a south- or light west-facing window. If your room does not receive sunlight, place a full-spectrum grow light as an alternative. A lack of light may cause your indoor olive tree plant to produce weak branches, lose leaves, or grow in a leggy manner.
Optimum Temperature and Humidity for Indoor Olive Tree Plants
Olive tree house plants thrive with room temperatures between 65°F and 75°F (18°C and 24°C). They may tolerate short drops to 40°F (4°C), but they don’t enjoy temperature shocks. Position your house plant away from drafts, heaters, or air conditioners.
They love typical home humidity. Unlike tropical house plants, olive trees don’t have to be misted every day. However, in extremely dry winter months, mist the leaves occasionally or use a humidifier to make your olive tree house plant contented.
Watering Your Indoor Olive Tree
Water your indoor olive tree plant when the soil in the top inch feels dry. Water thoroughly, then drain off excess water. Never have your house plant stand in water because this will cause root rot.
Reduce watering during winter when your indoor olive tree plant is in its dormant stage. You always need to match your watering with the season and home conditions of your area.
Fertilising for Healthy Growth
Feed your indoor olive tree plant in spring and summer with slow-release all-purpose plant food or tree and shrub formula liquid feed every 4-6 weeks. Do not fertilise your plant in winter when your indoor plant will not have an additional nutrient requirement because it will be in the dormancy phase.
Recommended Fertilisers:
- Use a balanced, slow-release fertiliser (e.g., 10-10-10) in spring
- Switch to a low-nitrogen fertiliser if you want to encourage fruiting
- Fertilise every 4–6 weeks from March to October
Switch to a phosphorus-based fertiliser to encourage flowering and fruiting when the plant is in bloom.
Pruning and Shaping Olive Tree Indoor Plants
Regular pruning will help keep your indoor olive tree compact and aesthetically pleasing. Prune weak, dead, or crossing branches during the winter season or very early springtime. Prune the centre branches to improve air circulation and allow more light to penetrate the centre of your indoor plant.
Regular pruning throughout the year keeps the plant in shape and position, and does not let the indoor olive tree plant become larger than the space available.
Indoor Flowering and Fruiting
With optimal conditions, your indoor olive tree plant will bloom and even produce fruit. Fruiting indoors isn’t guaranteed, though, and can also hinge on variety and pollination. Self-fertile varieties such as Arbequina will reliably produce fruit. Hand-pollination by using a soft brush to transfer pollen from flower to flower can be performed in some instances. Proper lighting and ongoing care will play a major part in inducing flowering in your houseplant.
Repotting: When and How to Do It for an Olive Tree
Repot your indoor olive tree plant every 2-3 years, or when the plant has outgrown its current pot. Use a slightly larger pot and refill the soil with a new gritty, well-draining mix. Prune the circling and damaged roots when re-potting for optimal growth. This will continue to make your indoor house plant thrive and flourish for years to come.
With proper cultivar choice, positioning the plant in a bright spot, and appropriate care, your indoor olive tree plant will make a beautiful, long-standing addition to the home. Whether grown for the aesthetic appeal or the possible future harvest of home-grown olives, this traditional house plant brings Mediterranean charm and personality to the room.
Pests and Diseases: Prevention and Remedies for Indoor Olive Trees
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Yellowing leaves | Overwatering or poor drainage | Reduce watering; improve soil drainage |
| Leaf drop | Sudden temperature changes or drafts | Keep the tree away from drafts; stabilise temperatures |
| No flowers or fruit | Insufficient light or lack of nutrients | Increase light exposure; fertilise properly |
| Brown leaf tips | Low humidity or underwatering | Increase humidity; adjust watering routine |
| Slow growth or weak branches | Poor soil nutrition or low light | Repot with fresh soil; improve lighting |
| Pests (scale, spider mites, aphids) | Overwatering, waterlogged soil | Wipe leaves; use insecticidal soap or neem oil |
| Root rot | Improve drainage; let the soil dry between watering | Keep the tree away from drafts; stabilise temperatures |
Indoor Olive Tree Seasonal Care Calendar
Whether you are an inexperienced or seasoned grower, routine maintenance for the seasons will ensure the well-being of the indoor olive tree plant. With proper care during the whole course of the year, this lovely indoor house plant not only thrives but even produces fruit indoors.
Spring (March – May)
The new growth season for your indoor olive tree plant occurs in spring. Move your indoor house plant to the sunniest spot indoors, specifically a south-facing window. If the outdoor temperature remains comfortably above 50°F (10°C), start acclimating your indoor olive tree plant to the outdoors. Place the plant on a patio or balcony during the day and indoors at night.
Resume regular watering when the topsoil feels dry and supplement with a balanced fertiliser every month to promote new leaf and stem growth. Inspect for winter injury and trim lightly to rejuvenate your houseplant.
Summer (June – August)
This is the time for maximum growth of your indoor olive tree plant. Bring the house plant outdoors into full sun during the summer, if possible. Water thoroughly but allow the top inch of soil to become dry before watering again. Feeding on a routine basis every month will provide the energy needed for good growth.
Check your indoor olive tree for scaly or spider mites during hot and dry times of the year. Prune the tree after flowering with light pruning to help keep your houseplant tidy.
Autumn (Sept – Nov)
As the days shorten, gradually move your indoor olive tree plant indoors—especially when the nights start to fall below 50°F (10°C). Reduce watering, as your indoor plant will slow its growth during this season. Stop fertilising to allow the plant to prepare for the dormancy cycle.
Gently dust the leaves of your indoor olive tree plant to increase indoor light intake. This will make the plant healthier.
Winter (December – February)
In winter, your indoor olive tree plant will go dormant. Position your indoor house plant in a well-lit area, ideally next to a south-facing window. Water the soil when it feels almost dry to the touch. Avoid fertilising during this time of the year.
Supply adequate air circulation to prevent mould and fungus issues, and inspect your houseplant olive tree for pests. Avoid positioning the tree near heater sources and drafts to avoid stressing the tree.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) of Olive Tree Indoor Plants
Are olive trees possible to cultivate indoors?
Yes! A dwarf olive tree houseplant will prosper with good light (6+ hours a day), moderate water, and good air circulation. Dwarf olive tree cultivars, such as ‘Arbequina’, make excellent houseplants.
Can olive trees produce fruit indoors?
Yes, your indoor olive tree plant will produce fruit—but that will take good light, proper care, and the occasional cross-pollination. Without fruit, the tree will make a beautiful houseplant.
How much sunlight does an indoor olive tree plant need?
Your indoor olive tree plant requires 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Place the house plant in front of a south- or west-facing window, or use a grow light if that’s convenient.
How often do I water my indoor olive tree plant?
Water your house plant when the top of the soil is dry, about 1–2 inches below the surface. Do not overwater, and ensure that the pot of the olive tree indoor plant has good drainage to prevent any root rot.
Does my houseplant olive tree require fertilisation?
Yes. Water your indoor olive tree plant with slow-release, balanced fertiliser once a month from spring to early fall. Stop fertilising during winter.
How big can an olive tree plant grow indoors?
The dwarf varieties of this cultivar, for example, can grow to a height of 4–6 feet when grown indoors. Pruning will help maintain your houseplant at the desired height.
Can my indoor olive tree plant go outdoors in the summer?
Yes! If the temperature stays above 50°F (10°C), your indoor olive tree plant may go on an outing. Just harden it off slowly to avoid burning the leaves.
Why are the leaves on my house olive tree plant turning yellow?
Yellowing can result from overwatering, inadequate drainage, or insufficient light. Inspect your house plant routine, especially soil moisture and placement.
When do I repot my indoor olive tree plant?
Repot every 2 to 3 years, ideally in the springtime. Choose a larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil to ensure your house plant stays healthy and continues to thrive.
Does an indoor olive tree need pruning?
Yes. Prune your houseplant in early spring or after periods of rapid growth to remove dead, crossing, or congested branches, thereby maintaining its shape.
An indoor olive tree plant brings classy elegance and Mediterranean flair to your home decor. Provided with enough light, moderate watering, and periodic attention during season change, your indoor house plant will provide years of joy. While fruiting is a bonus, the handsome silvery-green leaves and stately form make the indoor olive tree plant an appealing centrepiece in any room. Select a dwarf variety, wait patiently, and appreciate the slow-growing charm of this historic indoor houseplant.