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Description
Osmanthus Heterophyllus, commonly known as the holly olive or false holly, is an evergreen shrub native to Japan, Korea, and China. It belongs to the Oleaceae family, which includes olive trees, ash trees, and lilacs. This plant is a popular ornamental shrub due to its glossy green leaves, fragrant flowers, and adaptability to different growing conditions.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Oleaceae |
| Genus | Osmanthus |
Appearance
Osmanthus Heterophyllus has a dense, rounded growth habit, and can grow up to 15 feet tall and 10 feet wide. The leaves are glossy, dark green, and spiny, resembling those of holly trees. They can grow up to 4 inches long and 2 inches wide. The fragrant flowers bloom in early autumn, and are small, white, and tubular. The fruit is a small, blue-black drupe that appears in late autumn and winter.
Care Guide
Osmanthus Heterophyllus is a low-maintenance plant that can adapt to a wide range of growing conditions. Here are some care tips to keep your plant healthy:Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring, and again in mid-summer.Soil: The plant prefers well-drained, acidic soil. Add organic matter, such as compost or peat moss, to the soil to improve its texture and drainage.Sunlight: Osmanthus Heterophyllus can tolerate full sun to partial shade. However, it prefers partial shade in hot climates.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Osmanthus Heterophyllus is generally pest and disease resistant. However, it may be susceptible to scale insects, spider mites, and leaf spot. To prevent these problems, keep the plant healthy by providing proper care and monitoring it regularly. If pests or diseases appear, treat them promptly with an appropriate insecticide or fungicide.
Habitat
Osmanthus Heterophyllus is native to Japan, Korea, and China. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, hillsides, and riverbanks. In its native range, it is commonly used as a hedge or ornamental shrub.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Osmanthus Heterophyllus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers. However, it may require more frequent watering and fertilization than if grown in the ground.Q: How often should Osmanthus Heterophyllus be pruned?
A: Prune the plant lightly in the spring to remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches. You can also shape the plant at this time.Q: Is Osmanthus Heterophyllus deer-resistant?
A: Yes, the plant is deer-resistant due to its spiny leaves.Q: Can Osmanthus Heterophyllus tolerate drought?
A: The plant can tolerate some drought, but it prefers to be kept consistently moist.
Related Plants
- Osmanthus Fragrans (Sweet Olive)
- Osmanthus Burkwoodii (Burkwood Osmanthus)
- Osmanthus Delavayi (Delavay Osmanthus)
- Osmanthus Aquifolium (Holly Leaf Osmanthus)
References
- “Osmanthus Heterophyllus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c680.
- “Osmanthus Heterophyllus.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/3683/Osmanthus-heterophyllus/Details.
- “Osmanthus Heterophyllus.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/osmanthus-heterophyllus-profile-3269376.
