Osmanthus heterophyllus aka Chinese Holly

Osmanthus heterophyllus is an evergreen shrub in the olive family. Gardeners call it false holly or holly olive. Its native range includes southern Korea, Japan, Taiwan, and Vietnam. It grows in evergreen woods, from lowlands to higher ground. Despite its name, it is not a true holly. Its paired leaves help tell the two plants apart.

This slow-growing shrub forms a dense, upright crown. Older plants may spread into a broad vase shape. Several main stems often rise close to the ground. Garden plants often stand 8–12 feet [2.4–3.7 metres] tall. A spread of 8–10 feet [2.4–3 metres] is usual. Some sources give larger garden sizes, reaching 26 feet [8 metres]. Wild plants can reach 25 feet [7.6 metres] tall. The leaves feel thick and leathery, with a glossy surface. Their tops are dark green, while their undersides look paler. Young leaves have sharp teeth that resemble holly spines. Older leaves often have smooth edges on the same plant. Gray or tan twigs bear tiny raised lenticels.

Small white flowers grow in clusters beside the leaves. Their strong, sweet scent draws more notice than their size. The leaves often hide the blooms from view. Flowering spans late summer and autumn, sometimes extending into winter. Each flower has four lobes and two yellow stamens. The fruit is an oval, blue-black drupe with flesh. Garden plants seldom produce fruit, and it attracts little notice.

Grow this shrub in sun or partly shaded ground. Afternoon shade suits sites with hot summer weather. It prefers rich, moist soil that drains well. It accepts clay, sand, loam, and a range of pH levels. Established plants withstand drought, heat, and city conditions. USDA zones 7–9 suit it; zone 6 needs a protected site. The RHS gives it a UK rating of H5. Dense growth suits hedges, screens, borders, and thorny barriers. It also serves as a specimen or small trained tree. Pruning can thicken growth but removes wood that would bear flowers. Deer tend to leave it alone.

Serious pests are rare, though scale and aphids can occur. Nematodes may also cause trouble, according to Florida guidance. Honey fungus is a possible disease. Wet soil can lead to root rot. Plants For A Future lists no known edible or medicinal uses. It also reports no known hazards, rather than proving safety. Its wood has uses in small furniture and toys.