Osmanthus heterophyllus ‘Variegatus’ – An Evergreen Shrub with Fragrant White Flowers
Osmanthus heterophyllus ‘Variegatus’ is a handsome evergreen shrub prized for its striking variegated foliage and deliciously fragrant white flowers in autumn. With holly-like leaves edged in creamy white, it provides year-round interest and structure in borders, hedging, and mixed planting schemes.
Slow-growing and easy to maintain, this elegant shrub is ideal for adding light, texture, and scent to the garden.
Why Grow Osmanthus heterophyllus ‘Variegatus’?
Fragrant Autumn Flowers
In autumn, small clusters of creamy-white flowers appear among the foliage, releasing a strong, sweet fragrance that can perfume the surrounding garden. Though modest in appearance, the scent is its standout feature.
Decorative Variegated Foliage
The glossy, spiny, holly-like leaves are attractively edged in cream and pale yellow, providing excellent contrast and year-round colour, even when the plant is not in flower.
Compact, Bushy Growth Habit
This variety forms a dense, upright shrub, typically reaching 2–3 m in height, making it suitable for borders, screening, or informal hedging.
Hardy and Adaptable
Osmanthus heterophyllus ‘Variegatus’ is hardy and resilient, tolerating cold, wind, pollution, and coastal conditions. It performs well in sun or partial shade and is relatively low maintenance once established.
Height and Spread
Typically grows to 2–3 m tall, with a spread of 1.5–2.5 m. Can be maintained smaller with pruning if required.
Where to Site Your Osmanthus heterophyllus ‘Variegatus’
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Mixed shrub borders for year-round interest
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Hedging or screening, formal or informal
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Near paths or entrances, where fragrance can be enjoyed
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Coastal and urban gardens, due to high tolerance
How to Grow and Care
Soil
Grows best in well-drained soil, but tolerates most soil types, including clay and chalk.
Light
Thrives in full sun to partial shade. Variegation is best in good light.
Watering
Water regularly during establishment. Once established, watering is only required during prolonged dry periods.
Maintenance
Pruning: Lightly trim after flowering to maintain shape.
Mulching: Mulch in spring to improve soil condition and conserve moisture.
Pests & Diseases: Generally trouble-free.
Perfect Plant Combinations
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Evergreen shrubs for layered planting
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Hydrangeas or camellias for seasonal contrast
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Grasses and perennials for softer textures
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Spring bulbs at the base for early interest
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.