Holly Tea Osmanthus, also called holly tea olive and false-holly (Osmanthus heterophyllus) is a large (15 feet tall), dense, upright, oval-rounded evergreen shrub. The species blooms in late fall and the tiny inconspicuous white flowers are sweetly fragrant. Small numbers of fruits ripen the following year, and often go unnoticed.

Osmanthus heterophyllus ‘Goshiki’ is a smaller compact, mound-forming evergreen variety that reaches up to 4-5 feet tall and 3-5 feet wide. It is a perfect choice in a small garden. Goshiki osmanthus flowers open in late September into October and their sweet fragrance fills the air from several feet away. The small (about ¼ inches across) white flowers are borne in clusters of 4 or 5 at the base of the leaf axils.

‘Goshiki’ stands out for its bright leaf variegation dotted with creamy white flecks against the dark green holly-like foliage. It can be utilized as a low hedge or front border evergreen shrub. Blue-black drupe fruits, only 3/8 to 1/2″ in size, are rarely seen in cultivation. Goshiki is not invasive and deer stay away. It was introduced from Japan by Barry Yinger.

Plant in full sun or a partially shaded area and in a humus-rich well-drained soil; it tolerates pH soil between 5.5 to 7.5. Hardy in zones 6-9, site in partial shade in southerly zones 8-9. New spring growth starts out pinkish bronze; the spiny mature leaves display a mix of green, gold, and cream. Relatively pest-free.

Landscape Use: Great plant for low borders and hedges. Slow growing by nature, makes Goshiki a wonderful addition to a dwarf shrub collection, in a rock garden, or in a large container.