Olea europaea, commonly known as the Olive tree, is a small to medium-sized evergreen tree that is highly valued for its fruit and ornamental qualities.

Height/Spread: Olive trees can reach a height of 20-40 feet (6-12 meters) with a spread of 10-20 feet (3-6 meters), although they can be pruned to maintain a smaller size in gardens.

Position: Olea europaea thrives in a sunny and sheltered position, preferably in a south-facing or west-facing location that receives full sun exposure. It requires protection from strong winds and frost in colder regions.

Soil: Olive trees prefer well-draining soil with a slightly alkaline to neutral pH. They can tolerate a variety of soil types, including sandy or loamy soils, as long as they are not waterlogged.

Flowering Season: Olives trees produce small, fragrant, cream-colored flowers in late spring to early summer. However, the ability to set fruit in the Irish climate may be limited due to cooler temperatures.

Uses: Olive trees are primarily cultivated for their fruit, which is harvested for culinary purposes, such as olive oil production and table olives. In addition to their economic value, they are also prized for their ornamental beauty and can be used as focal points in gardens or planted as hedges for privacy.

Please note that while Olive trees can be grown in the Irish climate, they may require additional care and protection during colder months.