Osmanthus fragrans f. aurantiacus

Common name: Orange-flowered Sweet Olive

Description: This exceptional cultivar of the Sweet Olive is treasured for one of the most powerfully fragrant flowers in the plant kingdom. Throughout late summer and into autumn, clusters of small, tubular orange flowers appear amongst the glossy evergreen foliage, releasing an intense apricot-like perfume that can perfume an entire garden on still days. The scent has been described as a blend of jasmine, gardenia, and ripe apricots, with an almost intoxicating sweetness. The individual flowers are tiny but are produced in such abundance that they create a noticeable display of warm orange tones. The leathery, dark green leaves provide excellent year-round structure and make an attractive backdrop for the flowers. In its native China, the flowers have been used for centuries to scent tea. This is an outstanding shrub for positioning near seating areas, doorways, or windows where the magnificent fragrance can be fully appreciated.

Other benefits: intensely fragrant flowers, evergreen foliage, late-season flowering, low maintenance, excellent for scent gardens

Wildlife attraction: bees, butterflies, pollinators

Height & spread (approx.) at 10 years: 2m x 1.5m

Position: full sun to partial shade; flowers most profusely in good light with some shelter

Soil pH: adaptable to most soils; performs best in neutral to slightly acidic conditions

Moisture: moderate watering required; prefers consistently moist but well-drained soil; benefits from regular watering during dry periods

Winter hardiness: hardy to -10°C; benefits from a sheltered position away from cold winds