Osmanthus heterophyllus Goshiki (Holly Osmanthus)

Slow-growing and compact, Osmanthus heterophyllus ‘Goshiki’ (Holly Osmanthus) is a bushy evergreen shrub prized for its variegated and colorful holly-like foliage. Goshiki means 5 colors in Japanese. Emerging pink, the leathery leaves unfold as creamy, white, gold and bronze variegated, dark green spiny leaves.

Slow-growing and compact, Osmanthus heterophyllus 'Goshiki' (Holly Osmanthus) is a bushy evergreen shrub prized for its variegated and colorful holly-like foliage. Goshiki means 5 colors in Japanese. Emerging pink, the leathery leaves unfold as creamy, white, gold and bronze variegated, dark green spiny leaves. They create a luminous and eye-catching display. Blooming in late summer or fall, the dainty clusters of tiny fragrant white flowers are often hidden in the foliage. The dense growth habit and lush evergreen foliage make Goshiki an excellent choice for hedges, screens and specimen plants. A tough and beautiful shrub that is perfect to brighten up shady areas of the garden. Makes a good container plant too.

  • Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
  • Grows up to 5-10 ft. tall (1500-300 cm) and 4-8 ft. wide (120-240 cm). Clip off growing tips to maintain compact size and to encourage bushiness
  • A full sun to part shade lover, this plant is easily grown in rich, moist, well-drained soils. Appreciates afternoon shade in hot summer climates. Tolerates heavy clays. Drought tolerant once established.
  • Generally pest and disease free.
  • Fairly low maintenance. Needs little or no regular pruning.
  • Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings.

Requirements

Hardiness 6
– 9

Heat Zones 7
– 9

Climate Zones 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
Plant Type Shrubs
Plant Family Osmanthus
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Early,Mid,Late)Summer (Early,Mid,Late)FallWinter
Height 5'
– 10'
(150cm
– 3m)
Spread 4'
– 8'
(120cm
– 240cm)
Spacing 48″
– 96″
(120cm
– 240cm)
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low, Average
Soil Type Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Well-Drained
Characteristics Fragrant, Plant of Merit, Showy, Evergreen
Tolerance Clay Soil, Deer, Drought
Garden Uses Beds and Borders, Hedges and Screens, Patio and Containers
Garden Styles City and Courtyard, Coastal Garden, Gravel and Rock Garden, Informal and Cottage