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Description
Osmanthus Fragrans, also known as Sweet Osmanthus, is an evergreen shrub native to Asia, specifically China and Japan. The plant is known for its fragrant flowers and leaves, which are commonly used in teas, perfumes, and traditional Chinese medicine. It belongs to the family Oleaceae and is a member of the Osmanthus genus.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Oleaceae |
| Genus | Osmanthus |
Appearance
Osmanthus Fragrans has glossy, leathery leaves that are dark green on top and lighter underneath. The leaves are arranged opposite each other on the stem and are about 2-4 inches long. The plant can grow up to 30 feet tall with a spread of 10-15 feet. The flowers of Osmanthus Fragrans bloom in the fall and winter months, from September to April. They are small, about 1/4 inch wide, and come in clusters. The flowers can be white, yellow, or orange, and have a sweet, fruity fragrance.
Care Guide
Osmanthus Fragrans is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips for caring for your Osmanthus Fragrans:- Water: The plant prefers well-draining soil and moderate watering. Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer months.- Soil: The plant can grow in a variety of soils, as long as it is well-draining. A pH level of 6.0 to 7.5 is ideal.- Sunlight: Osmanthus Fragrans can grow in full sun to partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Osmanthus Fragrans is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to scale insects and root rot if overwatered. To prevent scale insects, keep the plant clean and free of debris. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Osmanthus Fragrans is native to China and Japan, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, mountains, and valleys. It is a popular ornamental plant in gardens and parks due to its fragrant flowers and attractive leaves.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Osmanthus Fragrans?
A: Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.
Q: Can Osmanthus Fragrans grow in full sun?
A: Yes, the plant can grow in full sun to partial shade.
Q: What is the ideal pH level for Osmanthus Fragrans?
A: A pH level of 6.0 to 7.5 is ideal.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Osmanthus Fragrans?
A: The plant is hardy in zones 7-10.
Related Plants
– Osmanthus Heterophyllus- Osmanthus Burkwoodii- Osmanthus Americanus- Osmanthus Armatus
References
– “Osmanthus Fragrans.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c307.- “Osmanthus Fragrans.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/13622/osmanthus-fragrans/details.
