Osmanthus heterophyllus aka Chinese Holly
Taxonomy
Osmanthus heterophyllus, also known as holly osmanthus, holly olive, or false holly, is a species of flowering plant in the olive family Oleaceae. It is native to eastern Asia, specifically central and southern Japan (Honshū, Kyūshū, Shikoku, and the Ryukyu Islands) and Taiwan. The evergreen shrub has dark and leathery foliage with toothed edges and blooms in the late fall into winter. The plant produces inconspicuous flowers that are highly aromatic and pungently sweet, reminiscent of jasmine, orange blossoms, or peaches. Additionally, growing Osmanthus plants as a hedge creates a wall of fragrance, and passers-by will wonder at the source of the delightful scent. Tea olive cultivation is easy because they require little pruning and are relatively pest-free. False Holly can grow up to 15 feet tall and is used in hedges, screens, foundations, barriers, or as a specimen plant.
Common names
Chinese Holly, Holly Osmanthus, Holly Olive, False HollyHow to care for Chinese Holly
Difficulty
With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for Chinese Holly, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.
Water
Chinese Holly should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Chinese Holly loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Chinese Holly prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Dormancy
During the wintertime, it is common for Chinese Holly plants to go dormant and their growth rate may slow down. Therefore, the amount of waterings should be spaced out more.
Toxicity
Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.
Fertilizer
The growth of Chinese Holly is gradual and it doesn't necessitate any additional fertilizers. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should suffice to provide the plant with sufficient nutrition. It's important to keep in mind that plants derive their energy from the sun's rays, not fertilizers.
Region of origin
Chinese Holly’s native range is E. Asia - Japan, Taiwan.
More info:
Wikipedia
