Fragrant Tea Olive
osmanthus fragrans
Also known as: ["Sweet Olive","Fragrant Olive"]
Overview
A small evergreen tree or shrub known for its highly fragrant white or yellow flowers that bloom in autumn.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Oleaceae |
| Genus: | Osmanthus |
| Botanical Name: | Osmanthus fragrans |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or sheltered outdoor garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry climates
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil mix with organic matter like compost or peat moss.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth starts.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid leaf burn; protect from intense afternoon sun; adjust light exposure based on indoor vs. outdoor placement.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Avoid direct midday sun; rotate plant for even growth; provide dappled light in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, avoid letting the plant sit in water.
Soil
well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.5).
Use acidic amendments if needed, ensure pots have drainage holes, avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoid frost; thrives in mild, stable conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain stable conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly and frequently, flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup, stop in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood stem cuttings with at least two nodes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cutting, apply hormone, plant in medium, cover with plastic, keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is present.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone powder or gel recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–4 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bag or propagator, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open canopy, heading cuts to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Shape plant, encourage bushiness, remove dead or diseased wood, and manage size.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune dead/diseased wood first, make clean cuts, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if crowded, use fresh soil mix, ensure drainage holes are clear.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, use fresh soil, water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal issues; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage, incorporate organic matter for fertility, ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or dieback; vulnerable to frost damage.
Solution: Protect from frost with frost cloth or move indoors; ensure good air circulation to prevent mold.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering due to excessive heat and dryness.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, and water more frequently without overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, rinse pot periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicOsmanthus fragrans is not considered toxic to cats. The plant is not known to cause adverse effects when ingested or handled by cats.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicOsmanthus fragrans is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant is not known to cause adverse effects when ingested or handled by dogs.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicOsmanthus fragrans is not considered toxic to humans. The plant is often used in culinary applications and for its fragrant flowers in teas and perfumes.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Osmanthus fragrans?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, typically once a week, but adjust based on climate and season.
Q: Does Osmanthus fragrans require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade to full sun, but can tolerate some shade, especially in hotter climates.
Q: Are the flowers of Osmanthus fragrans edible?
A: Yes, the flowers are edible and often used in teas, desserts, and other culinary applications.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Oleaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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