About
Osmanthus serrulatus is a compact, slow-growing evergreen shrub to 1.5 m with large, glossy, dark-green, toothed leaves. In spring it produces clusters of small, perfumed, white flowers in the leaf axils, followed by ovoid, blue-black berries to 1 cm long. A rewarding 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
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens
Native toChina
FragranceFlower
Care notes
CultivationOutdoors, grow in fertile, well-drained soil in full sun with protection from cold, drying winds
PruningSee pruning group 8
PropagationPropagate by sowing seed in a cold frame as soon as ripe. Root semi-ripe cuttings in summer with bottom heat. Layer in autumn or spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus