shrub

Fruitland's Fortune's Osmanthus

Osmanthus fortunei 'Fruitlandii'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

96 inches

Width

84 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Low to Medium

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

Long-lived evergreen shrub

Native To

Hybrid (Japan)

Toxicity

Non-toxic.

The Story

Plant Bio

Osmanthus x fortunei is a large, dense, evergreen hybrid shrub with leathery, holly-like, dark green leaves. It produces small, but intensely fragrant flowers in the fall. 'Fruitlandii' is a popular selection that is more compact, slower-growing, and has a denser habit than the species. Its leaves are slightly less spiny, and it is a reliable and heavy bloomer with a powerful, sweet fragrance.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Its primary ornamental feature is the intensely fragrant cloud of flowers it produces in autumn. The handsome, dark green, holly-like foliage provides a strong, year-round presence and texture in the landscape.

The dense, spiny foliage makes it an outstanding choice for a security hedge or barrier. It is tough and adaptable, tolerating heat, drought, and clay soil once established, making it a reliable screening plant.

The dense evergreen branches provide excellent cover and potential nesting sites for birds. Its flowers are a valuable nectar source for bees and other insects active in the fall.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a site in full sun or part shade with well-drained soil.
Dig a planting hole twice the width of the container.
Place the plant in the hole, ensuring the root flare is level with the soil.
Backfill with the original soil, firming it gently around the root ball.
Water deeply after planting to settle the soil and remove air pockets.
Mulch around the base to conserve moisture and deter weeds.

Pro Tip

Plant it near a patio, window, or walkway to fully appreciate the powerful, sweet apricot-like fragrance of its autumn flowers.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide supplemental water during prolonged droughts, especially when young.
Prune after flowering if shaping is needed.
Allow enough space for it to reach its mature size.
Plant in a location with good air circulation.

Don't

Do not plant in poorly drained, boggy areas.
Do not over-fertilize, which can reduce flowering.
Do not shear into a tight hedge if you want maximum flower production.
Avoid planting in deep shade, which results in a leggy habit.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Intensely fragrant screening hedgeDurable foundation plantingArchitectural specimen shrub

Companion Plants

Camellia sasanqua Loropetalum chinense Abelia x grandiflora Mahonia bealei Distylium

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Fruitland's Fortune's Osmanthus questions

What zones can Fruitland's Fortune's Osmanthus grow in?

Fruitland's Fortune's Osmanthus is hardy in USDA Zones 7–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Fruitland's Fortune's Osmanthus deer resistant?

Yes — Fruitland's Fortune's Osmanthus is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Fruitland's Fortune's Osmanthus bloom?

Fruitland's Fortune's Osmanthus typically blooms in early fall through mid-fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Fruitland's Fortune's Osmanthus need full sun?

Fruitland's Fortune's Osmanthus does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Fruitland's Fortune's Osmanthus drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Fruitland's Fortune's Osmanthus handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.