Osmanthus heterophyllus 'Variegatus' (Holly Osmanthus)
Holly Osmanthus 'Variegatus', Holly Olive 'Variegatus', Chinese Holly 'Variegatus', False Holly 'Variegatus', Osmanthus heterophyllus 'Argenteomarginatus'
Slow-growing, Osmanthus heterophyllus 'Variegatus' (Holly Osmanthus) is a bushy evergreen shrub prized for its strikingly variegated holly-like foliage. The spiny, ovate, dark green leaves are boldly edged with creamy-white, creating a luminous and eye-catching display. Blooming in late summer or fall, the dainty clusters of tiny, strongly fragrant, white flowers are often hidden in the foliage. They are occasionally followed by ovoid black fruits. The dense growth habit and lush evergreen foliage make Variegatus 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 8-10 ft. tall (240-300 cm) and 5-8 ft. wide (150-240 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.
Not sure which Osmanthus to pick?
Compare All Osmanthus
Buy Osmanthus heterophyllus 'Variegatus' (Holly Osmanthus)
Requirements
Hardiness | 7
– 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) Fall Winter |
Height | 8' – 10' (240cm – 3m) |
Spread | 5' – 8' (150cm – 240cm) |
Spacing | 96" – 120" (240cm – 300cm) |
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 |
By traction, Shutterstock
While every effort has been made to describe these plants accurately, please keep in mind that height, bloom time, and color may differ in various climates. The description of these plants has been written based on numerous outside resources.
Requirements
Hardiness | 7
– 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) Fall Winter |
Height | 8' – 10' (240cm – 3m) |
Spread | 5' – 8' (150cm – 240cm) |
Spacing | 96" – 120" (240cm – 300cm) |
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 |