What: Osmanthus heterophyllus “Goshiki,” also known as variegated false holly, is an extremely tough, striking evergreen shrub. Goshiki means “five colored” in Japanese and refers to the various ... Osmanthus range in size from shrubs to medium-sized trees, 2–12 m (7–39 ft) tall.

Context Explanation

The leaves are opposite, evergreen, and simple, with an entire, serrated or coarsely toothed margin. Osmanthus americanus is a North American native species found in the maritime forests of the Southeast U.S. It is the only species of tea olive that tolerates salt spray, making it ideal for coastal locations. When the blooms appear, the heady fragrance of a tea olive tree (Osmanthus fragrans) is liable to make you swoon.

Insight Material

Here's how to care for this Southern garden favorite. With dense, upright branching and a naturally refined habit, Osmanthus shrubs are as low-maintenance as they are elegant. Their roots anchor firmly, their stems stand strong against the wind, and their evergreen leaves remain handsome even through winter. Learn about osmanthus’ distintive fragrance, uses in cuisine, unique varieties, and storied origins as a revered flower in Asian art and culture. Osmanthus, also known as sweet olive, is a flowering plant native to Asia, particularly China and Japan.

Final Conclusion

Osmanthus isn’t a very common shrub, but it does have many advantages that other shrubs don’t have. Its magnificent green, sometimes mottled leafage (depending on the variety) is very dense, and it is perfectly suited to flowered, not-so-tall hedges. Easy to grow, Osmanthus are evergreen shrubs or small trees with handsome leathery leaves, either prickly like hollies, or finely serrated. Most enjoy deep green leaves, but some cultivars are splashed with other colors, creating an eye-catching display.