Overview
Osmanthus x burkwoodii is a bushy shrubs in the genus Osmanthus, part of the Oleaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 2.5-4 metres tall and 2.5-4 metres wide, reaching full size in around 10-20 years. Osmanthus x burkwoodii grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. It is a holder of the RHS Award of Garden Merit and low maintenance.
About
Osmanthus x burkwoodii is a robust, slow-growing evergreen shrub that typically reaches heights of up to 3 meters. It features dark green, ovate leaves measuring between 2.5 and 5 centimeters long. In spring, clusters of small, fragrant white flowers appear, which may occasionally give way to a few black fruits.
About the genus
Osmanthus consists of evergreen shrubs or diminutive trees characterized by their leathery, opposite foliage. The plants produce small, typically aromatic, tubular flowers that are white, yellow, or orange, each featuring four lobes. These flowers are succeeded by ovoid fruits that turn blue-black when mature.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Osmanthus
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- North-facing, East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Osmanthus x burkwoodii size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Shrubs
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Height
- 2.5-4 metres
- Spread
- 2.5-4 metres
- Time to full height
- 10-20 years
- Fragrance
- Flower
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Osmanthus x burkwoodii
- Cultivation
- Grow in well-drained soil in sun or partial shade; good for woodland gardens
- Pruning
- Pruning group 8; cloud pruning is also an option
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed or semi-hardwood cuttings
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to honey fungus
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Osmanthus x burkwoodii?
Grow in well-drained soil in sun or partial shade; good for woodland gardens.
Where is the best place to plant Osmanthus x burkwoodii?
Osmanthus x burkwoodii prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Osmanthus x burkwoodii need?
Osmanthus x burkwoodii is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
How do I prune Osmanthus x burkwoodii?
Pruning group 8; cloud pruning is also an option.
How big does Osmanthus x burkwoodii grow?
Osmanthus x burkwoodii reaches a height of 2.5-4 metres and a spread of 2.5-4 metres. It takes around 10-20 years to reach full size.
Is Osmanthus x burkwoodii hardy in the UK?
Osmanthus x burkwoodii has a UK hardiness rating of H5.
How do I propagate Osmanthus x burkwoodii?
Propagate by seed or semi-hardwood cuttings.