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Shrub · EvergreenSKU 172061

Osmanthus het. Variegatus 10 Litre Pot

Osmanthus het. Variegatus 10 Litre Pot

Osmanthus heterophyllus 'Variegatus'
Is an evergreen shrub with glossy, holly-like leaves edged in cream and highly fragrant white flowers in autumn.
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£31.50
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Variegated holly olive
Osmanthus heterophyllus 'Variegatus'
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Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Hardiness
Winter Hardy
Mature size
2.5m tall
Foliage
Evergreen
Flowers
White
Flowering
Summer, Autumn
Soil
Loam
Supplied as
Pot Grown
Growth rate
Moderate
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About Osmanthus het. Variegatus 10 Litre Pot

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’

  • Mixed shrub borders for year-round interest

  • Hedging or screening, formal or informal

  • Near paths or entrances, where fragrance can be enjoyed

  • 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

  • Evergreen shrubs for layered planting

  • Hydrangeas or camellias for seasonal contrast

  • Grasses and perennials for softer textures

  • Spring bulbs at the base for early interest

Plants well with

Our growers' picks to plant alongside Osmanthus het. Variegatus 10 Litre Pot for a fuller, longer-lasting display.