Osmanthus Delavayi

Osmanthus Delavayi

Why Buy Me?

• Add fragrance to your garden
• Clusters of tiny flowers
• Evergreen

Growing Conditions

Light:

Thrives in full sun to partial shade. While it can tolerate deep shade, best flowering and foliage colour occur in dappled or light shade.

Soil:

Prefers moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil. Tolerates a range of soil types including clay, loam, or sandy soils. Suitable for neutral to slightly acidic conditions.

Exposure:

Performs well in sheltered or semi-exposed spots. Hardy and tolerant of urban pollution and moderate wind, though protection from harsh winter winds is beneficial.

Drought Tolerance:

Moderate. Once established, it copes well with dry periods, but regular moisture during extended droughts will support better flowering and foliage.

Cultivation & Care

Planting Time:

Best planted in autumn or spring when the ground is workable. Container-grown plants can be planted year-round with adequate watering.

Spacing:

Allow 1.2–1.8 meters (4–6 feet) between plants to accommodate mature size and encourage airflow.

Watering:

Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep, extensive root system. Once established, water during long dry spells.

Fertilization:

Feed in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Organic mulch or compost annually helps enrich soil and support growth.

Mulching:

Apply mulch in spring to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Keep mulch a few inches away from the base of the plant to prevent stem rot.

Pruning:

Minimal pruning required. Lightly trim after flowering to shape and remove dead or damaged wood. Avoid heavy pruning as it flowers on old wood.

Propagation:

Can be propagated from semi-ripe cuttings in summer. Seed is possible but germination is slow and inconsistent.

Seasonal Interest

Spring:

Abundant clusters of small, white, intensely fragrant flowers bloom in early spring. New foliage may emerge with a slight bronze tint.

Summer:

Lustrous, deep green evergreen foliage provides year-round structure and interest. Plant growth is steady but slow.

Autumn:

Dark green leaves remain attractive. Flower buds may begin forming for the next spring’s bloom.

Winter:

Evergreen foliage adds structure. While not a winter-flowering shrub, it remains an important architectural presence in winter gardens.

Wildlife & Garden Use

Wildlife:

Highly fragrant flowers attract early pollinators such as bees. Birds may be attracted to shelter in the dense foliage, though fruiting is rare in many regions.

Garden Use:

Ideal for mixed borders, hedges, screens, or as a specimen shrub. Excellent choice for woodland gardens, shaded corners, or courtyard planting.

Companion Plants:

Pairs well with shade-loving plants such as hellebores, ferns, Epimedium, Sarcococca, Skimmia, and spring bulbs like snowdrops. Also combines well with other evergreen shrubs for structure.

Don’t miss out on the exceptional quality of the Osmanthus Delavayi. It’s just a few clicks away when you order online, or you can stop by your nearest Thompson's Branch to pick one up and chat with our knowledgeable team.