Osmanthus

Easy to grow, Osmanthus are evergreen shrubs or small trees with handsome leathery leaves, either prickly like hollies, or finely serrated. Most enjoy deep green leaves, but some cultivars are splashed with other colors, creating an eye-catching display. In spring or fall, dainty clusters of tiny fragrant flowers charm the entire garden with their floral scent. The dense growth habit and lush foliage make them perfect for hedges, screens, or foundation plantings. Rarely browsed by deer, they tolerate a wide range of soils, including heavy clay.