Osmanthus, beautiful fragrant blooming

Sweetly-scented shrub

Osmanthus is a holly shrub with sharp, leathery leaves and small white-scented flowers. The variety of cultivars available to this plant vary in leaf colour. It is an evergreen plant that is suitable for topiary and hedging.

Osmanthus - lovingly pricking leaves

Osmanthus is a group of 30 species belonging to the Oleaceae, which includes the olive. They are an evergreen shrub that is extremely hardy. They were originally from China and Japan. They can be easily managed because they are slow growing. This shrub is easy to care for and requires very little pruning. It can also be placed on a patio or balcony. Osmanthusx burkwoodii is a cross between two holly-like plants. The beautiful, fragrant white flowers make this plant a wonderful addition to any patio. Osmanthus varieties of other species are also attractive due to their leaf markings. They can still be used in the garden in November. We often associate the holiday period with the shrub's leaves because they resemble holly. Osmanthus homophyllus can be found in many cultivars. Because of its appearance and origin, the plant is well-suited for Japanese and Oriental gardens. It can also be used with other garden plants such as Pieris or Skimmia.

Osmanthus care

If you follow these simple tips, Osmanthus will stay healthy and attractive. Osmanthus is very hardy and can thrive in full sun, partial shade, or even full shade.

* Osmanthus has a normal, humus rich soil. It is not too wet or too dry.

For optimum health, fertilize the plant with a mixture of spring and fall fertilisers.

It can last many years if the plants are properly pruned. Pruning too early during winter can cause branches to freeze.

Osmanthus pruning tips

Osmanthus is slow to grow and should only be pruned if it grows too large or has any dead or unsightly branches.

Osmanthus pruning is best done in February or March. Pruning Osmanthus branches too soon can cause them to freeze. Osmanthus can be used as a hedge plant or other topiary. It's best to prune it between June and September. If you are using Osmanthus as a hedge or topiary, it is a good idea each year to prune. Osmanthus burkwoodii flowers best when pruned after May/June blooms so that you can enjoy their beautiful fragrance.