Fontanesia is a genus of flowering plants in the family Oleaceae, usually treated as comprising a single species Fontanesia phillyreoides, though some authors split this into two species. It is native to southern Europe (Sicily), southwestern Asia and eastern Asia (China), with two well-separated populations.

Fontanesia is a flowering plant ideal for architectural and courtyard gardens, thriving in full sun or partial shade with spring and summer interest.

Fontanesia

Fontanesia fortunei is an evergreen, clump-forming cultivar from the Oleaceae family. It thrives in full sun or partial shade, ideally in a sheltered position with moist but well-drained loam or sandy soil of any pH. Suited to east, south, or west-facing aspects, it is hardy to UK zone H1b. This cultivar is valued for its architectural qualities and is suitable for city and courtyard gardens, informal settings, patios, conservatories, and as a houseplant. It is best planted in a well-drained site and requires watering during establishment. Propagation is by division or stem cuttings, with interest in spring and summer.

Fontanesia fortunei is an evergreen clump-forming shrub ideal for sheltered spots, thriving in full sun or partial shade with spring and summer interest.

Fontanesia fortunei

Fontanesia is a genus of flowering plants in the family Oleaceae, usually treated as comprising a single species Fontanesia phillyreoides, though some authors split this into two species (see below). It is native to southern Europe (Sicily), southwestern Asia (Lebanon, Syria, Turkey) and eastern Asia (China), with two well-separated populations. It is a deciduous shrub growing to 8 m tall. The leaves are opposite, lanceolate to narrow ovate, 3–12 cm long and 8–26 mm broad, with an acute apex and a usually entire margin, sometimes finely serrated. Grow it in full sun and partial shade and loam and sand soil. In UK gardens it needs subtropical warmth and glass protection in the UK (RHS H1b). It works well for architectural, city and courtyard gardens, cottage and informal garden, houseplants, patio and container plants and conservatory and greenhouse. It tolerates soil of any pH, moist but well-drained conditions and east-facing, south-facing and west-facing aspects.