This genus is classified in the same family as olives. Some species may have leaves that look similar to Holly, but the development of the flowers and fruit are rather typical of the Oleaceae family.
The flowers have an almost candy-like fragrance. The plant will bloom in fall and if the shrub is mature enough and has enough flowers, the scent can engulf a large enough area that you could smell the flowers from hundreds of feet away.
| Plant Types: | Interior Plant, Perennial, Shrub, Tree |
| Light: | Partial Shade to Full Sun |
| Height: | 15 feet to 25 feet |
| Width: | 15 feet to 25 feet |
| Zones: | 8a to 11b |
| Bloom Color: | White |
| Bloom Seasons: | Early spring, Mid spring, Late spring, Early fall, Mid fall, Late fall, Early winter, Mid winter, Late winter |
| Leaf Color: | Green |
| Special Features: | Attractive foliage, Not North American native |
| Shape: | Rounded, Upright or erect, Vase |
| Fertilizer: | Miracle-Gro® Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food |
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Semi-ripe cuttings in late spring or early summer. Sow from seed when ripe, in containers in a cold frame (for protection).
Evergreen shrubs and trees. Dense glossy foliage. Grows best in sun or partial shade with protection from the winter sun and wind.
Miniscule flowers that are intensely fragrant, blooming in fall or spring, depending on species. Blooms are followed by blue-black fruits.
Acidic, fertile, moist, well-drained soil. Tolerates some clay or alkalinity.
Implement a balanced liquid fertilizer on a monthly basis during the growing period.
For early-flowering species: shoots should be trimmed after the flowering period. Remove dead/damaged plant parts in midspring. For late-flowering species: annually, in mid to late spring, trim shoots that are ruining symmetry. Deadhead if necessary. All species are tolerant of hard pruning.
Scale insects. Osmanthus is also prone to olive knot, black mildew, anthracnose, wilt, and root rot.