About
Osmanthus decorus is a rounded, dense, medium-sized evergreen shrub to 3 m with dark-green, leathery, oval leaves. In mid-spring numerous small clusters of highly fragrant, tubular, white flowers appear. A reliable and fragrant evergreen for a sheltered, sunny garden.
About the genus
Osmanthus are evergreen shrubs or small trees with leathery, opposite leaves and small, usually intensely fragrant, tubular, white, yellow or orange flowers followed by ovoid, blue-black fruits. Popular specimen and hedging shrubs in sheltered gardens.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Sand, Loam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectNorth-facing, East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toW Asia, Turkey, Med.
FragranceFlower
Care notes
CultivationGrow in well-drained soil in sun or partial shade; good for woodland gardens.
PruningPruning group 8
PropagationPropagate by seed as soon as ripe or by semi-ripe cuttings in summer with bottom heat
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus