New Varieties of Osmanthus
One of the most fragrant of all flowering shrubs is osmanthus (Osmanthus fragrans ), which flowers in winter or early spring. Its insignificant flowers have the delightful scent of apricots. There are now two new varieties of Osmanthus available that have a rich, sweet perfume and large white flowers.
Details
Common name: Osmanthus
Botanic name: Osmanthus delavayi. The genus name Osmanthus literally comes from the words ‘osme’ which is odour, and ‘anthus’ for flowers. This species comes from China and has more prominent flowers than the species, O. fragrans, which is more commonly grown in Australia.
New varieties: Both varieties have serrated evergreen leaves and tubular white flowers with a strong, sweet perfume.
Osmanthus delavayi ‘Pearly Gates’-has a zigzag form to its growth and flowers in late winter then intermittently in spring.
Osmanthus delavayi ‘Heaven Scent’- has a more upright growth than ‘Pearly Gates’ and flowers in late winter to early spring.
Best climate: Prefers the cool, moist parts of Australia (see climate map) but thrives from the subtropics (Brisbane and Perth) to Hobart. This plant is a member of the olive family (Oleaceae) and comes from China.
Size: It will grow as a tall shrub (1.5m or 5′ tall) and spreads to about 2m (6′) wide.
Best look: The new varieties will grow as attractive shrubs in the garden and will provide perfume and flowers in late winter to early spring with each variety flowering for about three to four weeks, then spot flowering.
Good points:
Perfumed creamy white flowers.
Densely packed evergreen shrub which can be clipped.
Pest and disease free.
Frost hardy to –8deg.C.
Care:
Plant in sun, but will tolerate some shade
Well-drained soil.
Prefers cool conditions so provide shelter from hot summer sun.
Prune annually (or at least every two years) to encourage dense growth.
Getting started:
Large pots (20cm or 8″) cost around $18 each for an 18 month to two year old plant, while smaller pots (15cm or 6″) are under $10. These should have some flowers and are available from nurseries throughout Australia. If you are unable to find plants at your local nursery contact the growers, Paradise Plants, to find out your nearest stockist. Paradise Plants, Cherry Lane, Kulnura, NSW, 2250. Phone: (02) 4376 1330.
Next year (1998) even larger more mature plants will be available at your local nursery.
