Small olive trees sit in the same “Mediterranean patio plant” bracket as bay and citrus, giving you evergreen structure without needing a big garden. At 45 to 55cm tall in a 14cm pot, this one is sized for a balcony, doorstep, or a sunny corner indoors, and it competes with similar young olives sold as starter trees at garden centres. Expect a neat, woody stem with silvery leaves that look good year round, even before it puts on much growth.

Who is this olive tree for?

Best suited to anyone wanting a low-fuss feature plant that can be kept in a container for years. Olives like light, so a bright windowsill, conservatory, or sheltered patio helps. In colder spells, container plants are easier to move to protection, which matters in UK winters.

• Height: 45 to 55cm, small enough to position easily, big enough to feel established.
• Pot size: 14cm, fine for now, but you may want to pot on as it grows.