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Common Name: Holly Olive

General Information

Osmanthus heterophyllus is an evergreen shrub that can grow up to 4.00 metres tall.
It is harvested from the wild for local use as a source of materials.

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

, ,

Range

E. Asia - Japan, Taiwan.

Habitat

In evergreen forests from the lowlands to elevations of 600 metres[].

Properties

Habit	Evergreen Shrub
Height	4.00 m
Self-fertile	No
Cultivation Status	Wild

Cultivation Details

Prefers a good loamy soil[], but succeeds in any soil, including chalk, in sun or part shade[, ]. Dislikes unduly exposed conditions but succeeds in windier conditions than most other members of this genus[].
Hardy to about -15°c[], but plants are sometimes affected by severe prolonged frosts[]. The form 'Purpureus' is said to be the hardiest variety[].
Plants are very tolerant of being transplanted, moving well even when quite large[].
The flowers are deliciously scented but plants only occasionally fruit in Britain[]. If plants are clipped after flowering they will flower more freely each year[].
A number of named forms have been developed for their ornamental value[].

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal

None known

Other Uses

The plant takes kindly to pruning and makes a dense hedge or screen[, , ]. Any trimming is best carried out in mid-summer[].
Wood. Used for small furniture, toys etc[, ].

Propagation

Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in a coldframe[]. Stored seed probably germinates best if it is given 3 months warm then 3 months cold stratification before sowing[]. The seed usually takes 6 - 18 months to germinate, it should be pricked out into individual pots when it is large enough to handle. Grow the plants on for their first winter in the greenhouse and plant them out in early summer.
Cuttings of half-ripe wood taken at the end of July, in a frame with bottom heat[].
Cuttings of almost ripe wood, 7 - 12cm with a heel, September/early autumn in a cold frame. A good percentage. Plant out in the spring 18 months later[].
Layering in spring[] or autumn[]. Partially sever the layer leads in the following late summer and plant out in the autumn. High percentage[].