sweet olive

Osmanthus suavis

ShrubOleaceae

sweet olive
Drought tolerantEvergreen
USDA zones8 to 9
SunHandles full sun to partial sun
WaterNeeds moderate soil
Size6 to 12 feet tall4 to 6 feet wide
Bloom season
Spring
Bloom color
White

Garden uses

Hedge

Notes

Sweet olive (Osmanthus suavis) is an evergreen shrub for hedges. It is hardy to USDA zone 8, or down to 10°F (-12°C). This plant likes full or part sun and average moisture. It grows 72 to 144 inches tall and 48 to 72 inches wide, so give it room. White flowers open in mid to late spring. Once settled in, it tolerates drought.

Pairs well with Oleander, Texas mountain laurel, Lemongrass, and Asiatic jasmine.

Native range

Southeastern Asia.

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