48 saves
Osmanthus
We track 8 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 8 most-saved Osmanthus varieties
Species of Osmanthus
Each one is a parent of the varieties above.
Track your Osmanthus in Sow
Save the Osmanthus you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Osmanthus
Whats common across all Osmanthus varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 8 most-grown of them.
The Osmanthus year
- PruneMarch100% of varieties
Prune in early spring before new growth begins to shape or reduce size.
- FertilizeMarch88% of varieties
Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer for acid-loving plants in spring.
- PlantMarch, April, September and October38% of varieties
Plant in spring or fall in well-drained, acidic soil.
Do
- Protect from harsh winter winds in the northern end of its range.
- Provide regular water until established, then it is drought tolerant.
- Plant in acidic soil for best performance.
- Prune after flowering or in early spring to maintain desired size.
- Provide consistent moisture, especially when young.
Avoid
- Don't plant in waterlogged or consistently wet soil.
- Do not plant in heavy, waterlogged, or alkaline soils.
- Avoid planting in deep shade, which will reduce flowering and fragrance.
- Don't shear into a tight, formal shape if you want maximum flowering.
What goes wrong with Osmanthus
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Scale Insects | Small, immobile bumps on stems and undersides of leaves; sticky honeydew. | Apply horticultural oil during the dormant season. Use a systemic insecticide for heavy infestations. |
| Scale | Bumps on stems and leaf undersides with sooty mould | Apply horticultural oil during dormancy |
| Cercospora Leaf Spot | Brown or tan spots on leaves, sometimes with a dark border. | Improve air circulation. Remove and destroy infected leaves. Fungicides are rarely necessary. |
| Root Rot | Wilting, yellowing leaves, and overall decline in vigor, caused by overly wet soil. | Ensure excellent drainage at planting time. Reduce watering frequency. There is no cure once rot is advanced; prevention is essential. |
| Generally disease-free | No significant disease issues reported | Provide good drainage and air movement |
Making more Osmanthus
Semi-hardwood Cuttings
- Take 4-6 inch cuttings in late summer.
- Remove lower leaves and wound one side of the base.
- Dip in rooting hormone and place in a moist potting mix.
- Keep humid; rooting may take 2-3 months.
Semi-hardwood cuttings
- Take 4-6 inch cuttings in late summer or early fall.
- Wound the base and dip in rooting hormone.
- Stick in a well-drained medium like sand and peat.
- Provide bottom heat and humidity; rooting can be slow (3-4 months).
Osmanthus questions
How many types of Osmanthus are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 8 distinct Osmanthus varieties. The most popular — ranked by 48 real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Osmanthus grow in?
Across its varieties, Osmanthus covers USDA Zones 6–10. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Osmanthus bloom?
Most Osmanthus varieties bloom in early fall, fall. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Osmanthus should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.