Position – Full sun or part shade
Soil – Well-drained
Flowering Period – Predominantly spring (some autumn and winter varieties)
Hardiness – Fully hardy
Osmanthus are evergreen shrubs or small trees with glossy, leathery leaves and often scented tubular yellow, orange or white flowers of four lobes, showcasing a divine display of flower and foliage colour throughout spring although some varieties will bloom throughout autumn and winter. After the flowering period, blue-black fruits often follow to create further interest in the garden. Osmanthus are best used as hedging or to create a partition. You should expect to see your shrubs and trees grow to an approximate height of 2.5m (8’) and a spread of 3m (9’).
Osmanthus are best planted in well-drained soil of chalk, clay, sand and loam within an acidic, alkaline or neutral PH balance. Dig a hole that is the same depth and width as the root ball, watering thoroughly to settle into place. Space your plants approximately 10- 15cm (4-6”) apart to form a compact hedge or screen. Water young plants regularly until the shrub is established. A denser habit is produced when positioned in full sun, although some varieties will tolerate areas of part shade.
Once established, Osmanthus only require thorough watering during periods of drought. You may wish to fertilise them with a general-purpose fertiliser every year which should be spread around the base of the shrub, taking care not to touch any wood or foliage and water in well. Alternatively, a generous layer of compost will act as a slow release fertiliser. Osmanthus do not require much pruning although you may remove dead or old branches to retain a healthy appearance.
It is possible to propagate Osmanthus by seed or by semi-hardwood cuttings.
