Overview

Osmanthus burkwoodii 'Balls' is a shrub in the genus Osmanthus, part of the Oleaceae family. Osmanthus burkwoodii 'Balls' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include hedging and borders. It is native to China.

About

Osmanthus delavayi is a species of flowering plant in the olive family Oleaceae. It is an evergreen shrub native to the Guizhou, Sichuan and Yunnan regions of southern China, and widely cultivated as an ornamental in temperate and subtropical zones elsewhere.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Osmanthus delavayi

About the genus

Osmanthus is a genus of about 30 species of flowering plants in the family Oleaceae. Most of the species are native to eastern Asia with a few species from the Caucasus, New Caledonia, and Sumatra. Osmanthus has been known in China since ancient times with the earliest writings coming from the Warring States period; the book Shanhai Jing: Nanshan Jing states: "The first peak of the Que Mountain range is Mount Zhaoyao, rising by the western sea, where many osmanthus trees grow, and where rich veins of metals and jade lie hidden."

Wikipedia contributors, "Osmanthus", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Osmanthus

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Osmanthus

Sunlight

full sun, partial shade

Soil type

well-drained

Soil pH

acidic, neutral, alkaline

Soil moisture

moist

Exposure

sheltered

UK hardiness

H5

Plant details

Osmanthus burkwoodii 'Balls' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

Shrub

Suggested uses

hedging, borders

Native to

China

Fragrance

fragrant

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Osmanthus burkwoodii 'Balls'

Cultivation

Prefers well-drained soil and a sheltered position. Tolerates pruning well.

Pruning

Prune after flowering to maintain shape.

Propagation

semi-ripe cuttings in summer

Frequently asked questions