Northwest Blooms · Shrubs
Osmanthus delavayi
Delavay Osmanthus

- Family
- Oleaceae
- Height
- 6 to 10 feet
- Width
- 6 to 10 feet
- Flower color
- Small, tubular white flowers bloom in clusters
- Foliage color
- Dark green and glossy
- Bloom time
- Typically blooms in late spring to early summer
- Light
- Prefers full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Moderate; it prefers well-draining soil
- Maintenance
- Generally low-maintenance once established
- Growing zone
- Hardy in USDA zones 7 to 9
- Wildlife
- Bees and other pollinators
About this plant
Osmanthus delavayi is an evergreen shrub native to China, prized for its attractive foliage and fragrant flowers. In late spring to early summer, small tubular white flowers bloom in clusters, exuding a sweet, fruity fragrance that attracts bees and other pollinators. The dark green, glossy leaves are elliptical with finely toothed margins. Thriving in full sun to partial shade, it prefers well-draining soil with moderate watering. Once established, it is generally low-maintenance, requiring occasional pruning to maintain its shape and size.
Often used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes, Osmanthus delavayi serves well as a hedge, specimen plant, or in mixed shrub borders, adding beauty and fragrance to any setting. Its dense, naturally rounded growth habit provides year-round structure and makes it especially effective for creating refined evergreen plantings.
Works well in
Sun Gardens · Borders · Hedging & Privacy · Fragrant Gardens
Companion plants
Holly · Daisy bush · Tulips · Pineapple lily · Salvias · Rose campion
Design tip
Take advantage of Osmanthus delavayi’s fragrance by positioning it where its flowers can be enjoyed during everyday use of the garden, such as near an entrance, patio, or frequently traveled area. Allow enough room for its substantial form so frequent pruning does not diminish the flowering display.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.
