Fragrant Olive

This plant prefers to have its soil kept consistently moist, though it is important to give it a good soak and then allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. During the hotter weather of the summer, more frequent waterings may be necessary.

Fragrant Olive prefers bright, indirect sunlight, though it will tolerate partial shade. As this shrub is from warm, southern climates, it should be protected from chill and frost in winter. In cooler climates, gardeners may want to use a fleece covering to protect their Fragrant Olive during chillier times of the year.

Osmanthus fragrans prefers warm to hot temperatures, ranging from 40–75°F (4.4–23.9°C) in the winter and 60–85°F (15.6–29.4°C) in the summer.

Fragrant Olive prefers slightly humid conditions. Increase humidity in the garden with a humidifier, a soaker hose, or even with more frequent misting of the foliage.

Osmanthus fragrans prefers a soil that has been enriched with soil amendments like compost or peat moss. The soil should be light and well-draining, so be sure to add a soil mix to help add additional nutrients and to alleviate drainage issues.

Osmanthus fragrans should be fertilized three to four times a year with a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10. This shrub should be fertilized every couple of months during its active growing season and perhaps once more in late winter or early spring.

Fragrant Olive is relatively pest free, although it may get attacked by pests such as aphids, whiteflies, moth larvae, and scale. Plants may also get damaged by the occasional deer or rabbit. If pests become a problem, use a hose on the plant and its leaves to control infestations. Natural methods of pest control such as diatomaceous earth also can help to get rid of the pests.

Fragrant Olive should be repotted every two to three years as the plant’s roots grow larger. When repotting, loosen the root ball before moving the plant to a slightly larger container while still keeping the roots enclosed. Be sure to choose a potting mix with good drainage.

Most pruning on Fragrant Olive is best done as light pruning in late summer or early fall. The goal of pruning is to control size and to encourage the bushiness of the branches. This can be accomplished by removing any dead, diseased, or damaged wood as well as removing any branches that are crisscrossing or competing with the main branches.

Mulching Fragrant Olive in late fall or early winter will help to control the weeds by blocking out any light and reducing moisture levels. A light layer of organic mulch can also help to protect the roots of the shrub from frost damage.

Fragrant Olive can be propagated via seeds, layering, or cuttings. Seeds are collected in late summer and should be kept in a cool, dry place until sowing, which should occur after the last frost. Layering is another great option for a more established shrub. This is done by covering a stem area with soil or mulch until small roots begin to form, at which time the stem can be cut and the root-filled stem transplanted. Taking cuttings from an established shrub is another propagation method for Fragrant Olive. Cuttings should be taken in early summer and planted in a moist soil medium until the roots form in approximately two months.

Fragrant Olive does not require additional support. As this shrub can grow up to 8–10 feet (2.4–3.0 m) in height, it should be supported by tying the branches to a stake or small trellis.

Fragrant Olive does not require a rest period for optimal growth. This plant is always in bloom and should be watered as normal all year round.

Fragrant Olive is not toxic to pets.