Plant of the Month—The Opulent Osmanthus

By Kelley M. Heim, Garden Gate Landscaping

Gallant and resilient, Osmanthus heterophyllus provides a plethora of benefits when incorporated into the landscape. An eye-catching broadleaf evergreen that is all but completely deer resistant, it’s a wonder that this champion of the garden isn’t more widely used.

While albeit not a native species, and a member of the at-times unpopular olive family, this lovely shrub can withstand a multitude of site issues and does not display the invasive tendencies of its other cousins. The iridescent navy-blue fruit rarely results in viable seedlings, but some cultivars are the exception. O. heterophyllus ‘Sasaba’ has been found growing true to seed with its peculiar deeply incised leaves, but the one or two seedlings are easily removed by hand, hardly qualifying it as an invasive species, and thus, it should not be regarded as one. heavy pruning, even with electric shears, and not only live to tell the tale, but brag about it. The extensive range of cultivars can thrive in shade, sun, mild drought, and surface runoff. Also, as with other species of this shrub, O. heterophyllus is resistant to most disease, pests, and fungal problems. In addition, its waxy leaves create a dense and luxurious planting that offers the finest backdrop to any formal garden room and simultaneously invites wildlife to find refuge in its thick foliage.

If another point of persuasion were needed, Osmanthus has a gloriously sweet fragrance that weaves its way into the landscape from its diminutive and unassuming blossoms. Bloom time varies slightly and seems to depend on previous weather patterns, mostly rain and drought. But generally, from the moment fall bulb planting begins until the blossoms of the Prunus mume (Japanese apricot) quietly disappear in late winter, Osmanthus may grace us with her tender and sophisticated fragrance.

This versatile shrub comes in a multitude of cultivars varying in growth

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habit, size, foliage color, and fragrance intensity. A favorite cultivar of this fabulous shrub is O. heterophyllus ‘Goshiki,’ which appears to radiate light from its golden and pink-kissed leaves. Responding well to pruning, new growth has a more blushed tinge than its older foliage. Another excellent reason to have this gem around is its longevity in cut flower arrangements, including winter containers showcasing pruned branches for seasonal interest. Slow growing but having the ability to become quite the stunning specimen, it can reach 10’ x 10’ if left to its own devices. Collected by Barry Yinger and introduced locally by Brookside Gardens, this beauty is readily available at most nurseries.

One of the most commonly used O. heterophyllus cultivars is ‘Gulftide,’ introduced by Gulfstream Nursery. This stately selection is very upright and dense, with dark green foliage, and reaching up to 10’, it is an excellent choice for screening.

A harder to find but well worth the effort cultivar is O. heterophyllus ‘Kaori Hime,’ or fragrant princess, sporting significantly smaller leaves and a heavy bloom load. Even less tolerant of wet feet than other cultivars, this darling shrub is sure to stop any in their tracks when flowering. The fragrance is intoxicating. Originally believed to be a smaller sized plant at 2’ x 2’, estimates now suggest a much larger plant when left alone.

Lastly, O. heterophyllus ‘Party Lights’ is another exciting yet less commonly used cultivar. This enthusiastically named shrub takes the colorful foliage flushing to a new level by sporting fuchsia leaves above the traditional dark green holly-like leaves below. The effect is intriguing but does not persist year-round.

As deer pressure continues to increase in the region, and changing climates alter weather patterns and challenge the landscape norm, its ever more important that plant selections are made with intention. With graceful foliage, elegant fragrance, and a robust landscape presence, it is undeniable that O. heterophyllus is prepared to weather the storm and does so with panache.