Contents
Description
Osmanthus is a genus of around 30 species of evergreen shrubs and small trees that belong to the Oleaceae family. The plant is native to Asia, ranging from the Himalayas through southern China to Taiwan, Japan, and Southeast Asia. The name Osmanthus comes from the Greek words osme, meaning fragrance, and anthos, meaning flower – which perfectly describes this plant’s fragrant, small, and delicate flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Oleaceae |
| Genus | Osmanthus |
Appearance
Osmanthus has glossy, dark green, and leathery leaves that are 2-12 cm long and 1-5 cm wide. The plant blooms in the fall or early spring, producing small and fragrant white or yellow flowers that are clustered together in panicles. These flowers have a sweet, fruity, and apricot-like fragrance that can fill the air around the plant. Osmanthus can grow up to 30 feet tall, but dwarf varieties are also available for smaller gardens or containers.
Care Guide
Osmanthus is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of soil and light conditions. Here are some tips on how to care for your Osmanthus:
- Water: Water your plant regularly, especially during the growing season, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Feed your plant with a balanced fertilizer every spring before new growth appears.
- Soil: Osmanthus prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic, but it can tolerate alkaline and clay soils as well.
- Sunlight: Osmanthus can grow in full sun to partial shade, but it blooms best in a spot that receives at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: Osmanthus can grow in USDA hardiness zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Osmanthus is generally pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to some issues such as:
- Scale insects: These pests can suck the sap from the leaves and cause yellowing, wilting, and stunted growth. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown or yellow spots on the leaves and defoliation. Remove infected leaves and treat with a fungicide.
Habitat
Osmanthus is native to Asia and can be found in various habitats such as forests, mountains, and cultivated gardens. It prefers a humid and subtropical climate but can tolerate some cold and drought conditions as well.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Osmanthus grow in containers?
A: Yes, Osmanthus can grow in containers as long as they have good drainage and are large enough to accommodate the plant’s size.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Osmanthus?
A: You should fertilize your Osmanthus once a year, in the spring before new growth appears, with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How do I propagate Osmanthus?
A: You can propagate Osmanthus by taking semi-hardwood cuttings in the summer, or by layering in the spring.
Q: Can Osmanthus tolerate drought?
A: While Osmanthus prefers moist soil, it can tolerate some drought conditions once established, but it’s best to water it regularly.
Related Plants
- Lilac (Syringa vulgaris)
- Jasmine (Jasminum spp.)
- Forsythia (Forsythia spp.)
- Gardenia (Gardenia jasminoides)
References
- “Osmanthus,” Missouri Botanical Garden, accessed April 23, 2021, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281008&isprofile=0&basic=osmanthus.
- “Osmanthus,” The Spruce, accessed April 23, 2021, https://www.thespruce.com/osmanthus-plant-profile-3269302.
- “Osmanthus,” Royal Horticultural Society, accessed April 23, 2021, https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/27879/osmanthus/details.
