Northwest Blooms · Shrubs
Osmanthus x burkwoodii
Burkwood Osmanthus
- Family
- Oleaceae
- Height
- 6 to 10 feet
- Width
- 4 to 6 feet
- Flower color
- White, fragrant
- Foliage color
- Dark green, glossy
- Bloom time
- Spring
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Moderate
- Maintenance
- Low to moderate
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 6 to 9
- Wildlife
- Bees, butterflies
About this plant
Osmanthus x burkwoodii is a versatile evergreen shrub with a dense, rounded growth habit and small, leathery, dark green leaves that are glossy and finely toothed, providing a lush backdrop year-round and adding texture to the landscape. In spring, clusters of small, white, highly fragrant flowers appear, perfuming the air with a delightful, sweet scent and attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Burkwood Osmanthus thrives in well-drained soil and prefers a sunny to partially shaded location, tolerating a wide range of soil types and pH levels, making it adaptable to various garden conditions. Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant and requires minimal maintenance, with pruning needed after flowering to maintain its shape and size. Its compact size and attractive foliage make it well-suited for use as a specimen plant, hedge, or screen, and it can also be planted near outdoor living areas to enjoy its fragrance.
Works well in
Sun Gardens · Borders · Hedging & Privacy · Fragrant Gardens
Companion plants
Russian sage · Blue fescues · Coreopsis · Yarrow · Daylilies · Creeping phlox
Design tip
Position Burkwood osmanthus near an outdoor living area or another frequently used part of the garden where its strong spring fragrance can be fully appreciated. Prune shortly after flowering when shaping is necessary so the following season’s floral display remains a prominent feature.
