Also known as Chinese-Holly · Conocarpus Erected L. · False Holly
Holly Osmanthus (Osmanthus heterophyllus) is an evergreen shrub known for its holly-like, spiny leaves and fragrant white flowers, blooming in autumn.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to partial shade.
50% intensity
Thrives in full sun but tolerates partial shade, which can produce denser foliage.
Regular watering, allow topsoil to dry slightly between.
50% intensity
Prefers consistently moist soil but is drought-tolerant once established.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate.
50% intensity
Hardy in USDA zones 7-10, prefers mild to moderate temperatures.
Moderate.
50% intensity
Feed in spring and early summer with a balanced fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water Holly Osmanthus regularly, especially during dry periods, ensuring the soil is consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.
Reduce watering in winter when growth slows down.
Prune Holly Osmanthus to maintain its shape and size, or to remove dead or damaged branches. The best time for pruning is after flowering in late autumn or early winter.
Light shaping can also be done in late spring or early summer.
Propagate Holly Osmanthus from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late summer or early autumn. Insert cuttings into a well-draining potting mix and keep them moist in a warm, humid environment.
Rooting typically occurs within a few months.
Repot young Holly Osmanthus plants every 2-3 years, or when they become root-bound. Mature plants require less frequent repotting, perhaps every 4-5 years. Use a well-draining potting mix and a slightly larger pot.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Holly Osmanthus (Osmanthus heterophyllus)
Where Holly Osmanthus (Osmanthus heterophyllus) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Oleaceae |
| Genus | Osmanthus |
| Species | Osmanthus heterophyllus |
Similar in genus Osmanthus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
