Olives are incredibly versatile, from stand-alone trees to hedging, topiary, and being used as a houseplant. Olives respond well to pruning but adjust the pruning to suit the reason for having an Olive tree.

The fruit of Olive is initially inedible. Olives may be processed either while unripe to produce "green olives" or, when ripe, to produce "black olives", as are used on pizza, Mexican food, and Mediterranean-style salads. Olive oil is rich in oleic acid and good for cardiovascular health. Contains monounsaturated fat, the 'good' cholesterol. It may help with inflammation in joints etc.

Olives prefer a reasonably sheltered environment, although air movement is needed for pollination. In high rainfall areas, ensure the plant has good drainage. Can tolerate drought conditions and can be exceptionally long-lived. A general low-nitrogen fertiliser will keep the Olive happy.