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Osmanthus decorus

A rounded, dense, medium-sized evergreen shrub to a height of 3m, with dark green, leathery oval-shaped leaves. In mid spring, numerous small clusters of highly scented, tubular white flowers appear

Synonyms
Phillyrea decora

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Size
Ultimate height
2.5–4 metres
Time to ultimate height
10–20 years
Ultimate spread
2.5–4 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Sand
Loam
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring White Green
Summer Green
Autumn Green
Winter Green
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

North–facing or East–facing or South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H5
Botanical details
Family
Oleaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy
Genus

Osmanthus can be evergreen shrubs or small trees with leathery, opposite leaves and small, usually fragrant, tubular white, yellow or orange flowers with 4 lobes, followed by ovoid blue-black fruits

Name status

Correct

Plant range
W Asia, Turkey, Med.

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in well-drained soil in sun or partial shade; good for woodland gardens.

Propagation

Propagate by seed as soon as ripe or by semi-ripe cuttings in summer with bottom heat

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Low Maintenance
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

Pruning group 8

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be susceptible to honey fungus

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