Osmanthus
Oleaceae
Fragrant Olive
Evergreen; small trees and shrubs, some are similar to holly, flowers often fragrant and white.
Uses
Specimen tree, shubbery plant, hedge, screen.
Culture
Prefers a sheltered position from winds, most well-drained soils, full sun or light shade. Prune to shape only, or to maintain as hedge.
Propagation
Semi-hardwood cuttings to 12cm may be taken in summer and kept at 18 degrees C; seed sown in early spring. Otherwise, layering may be done in autumn and new plants detached after one or two years.
Cultivars
Up to 20 species plus named cultivars such as:
O. heterophyllus ‘Variegatus’: A slow-growing shrub to small tree with dark, glossy green, holly-like leaves opposite on stems with a cream-white margin; scented autumn flowers.
Plant Health
Hardy and half hardy cultivars; few pest and disease problems.
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