RedCrocus Goshiki Osmanthus (Variegated False Holly) Live Plant - Evergreen Shrub, Fragrant Fall Blooms, Low Hedge or Container 1 Gallon Nursery Pot
RedCrocus Goshiki Osmanthus (Variegated False Holly) Live Plant - Evergreen Shrub, Fragrant Fall Blooms, Low Hedge or Container 1 Gallon Nursery Pot
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$74.00 USD
Regular price
$96.20 USD
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$74.00 USD
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SKU:ber1ba6-redcrocus
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Osmanthus Goshiki Variegated False Holly
Evergreen • Variegated • Fragrant Fall Bloom
A durable, multi-toned evergreen with holly-like leaves and deliciously fragrant autumn flowers.
Description
A standout selection of Osmanthus heterophyllus, ‘Goshiki’ earns its name—“five colors”—with foliage that emerges flushed pink-bronze and matures to a lively mosaic of cream, gold, and green. The dense, upright habit and holly-like, finely spined leaves deliver structure and year-round color in borders, hedges, and containers. In late summer to fall, small ivory flowers hide among the leaves but fill the air with a sweet, apricot-jasmine perfume, providing seasonal delight and late nectar for pollinators. Tough, adaptable, and low maintenance, it’s excellent for sites where dependable evergreen texture is desired.
Suggested Uses
- Year-round structure in mixed borders and foundation plantings
- Colorful low hedge or informal screen
- Specimen or focal plant for entryways and courtyards
- Patio and terrace containers (slow, compact growth suits pots)
- Woodland edge with morning sun/afternoon shade
-
Fragrantfall interest near paths, doors, and seating areas
Plant Details
Botanical Name
Osmanthus heterophyllus ‘Goshiki’ (Variegated False Holly)
Common Name
Osmanthus ‘Goshiki’, Goshiki False Holly, Variegated False Holly
Size & Growth
Typically 4–6 ft tall × 4–5 ft wide in 7–10 years; can reach 6–8+ ft with age; dense, upright, naturally tidy form.
Hardiness Zones
USDA 6–9; protect from harsh winter winds at the colder end of its range.
Foliage Type
Evergreen; holly-like, spined leaves marbled cream, gold, and green; new growth often pink to bronze before maturing.
Bloom Time
Late summer to fall (often September–October); small, white, highly fragrant flowers are somewhat hidden by foliage.
Growth Rate
Slow to moderate; maintains compact habit with minimal pruning.
Light Requirements
Full sun to part shade. Best color with morning sun and afternoon shade in hot-summer climates; too much shade reduces variegation.
Attracts Pollinators
Yes — the fragrant fall bloom draws bees and other late-season pollinators.
Indoor Friendly
Primarily an outdoor shrub. May overwinter in a bright, cool sunroom (min ~40°F / 4°C) where winters are severe.
Container Friendly
Excellent for large containers due to slow growth and dense habit; choose a 16–24 in (40–60 cm) pot with drainage.
Deer Resistant
Yes — generally deer and rabbit resistant; spiny leaves discourage browsing.
Pet Warning
Considered non-toxic to cats and dogs; prickly foliage can cause mouth or skin irritation if chewed or handled roughly.
Fragrant
Yes — intensely sweet fragrance from the inconspicuous fall flowers.
Cut Flower
Grown more for foliage than flowers; variegated stems are excellent in arrangements and last 1–2 weeks in water.
Grows Well With
Camellia (esp. sasanqua), Pieris, Skimmia, Nandina (non-invasive cultivars), Mahonia, Boxwood, Japanese Maple, Hellebores, Heuchera, Azalea, Gardenia.
Note: Variegation is strongest with good light; heavy shade may mute colors.
Care Tips
Planting Instructions
Plant in spring or fall. Site with morning sun and afternoon shade where summers are hot. Dig a hole 2× as wide as the root ball, loosen circling roots, set at the same depth, backfill with native soil blended with compost, and water thoroughly to settle.
Soil Moisture
Keep evenly moist the first growing season; allow the top inch to dry between waterings. Moderately drought tolerant once established; avoid chronic sogginess.
Soil Type
Well-drained loam or sandy loam; tolerates amended clay if drainage is good. pH slightly acidic to neutral (≈5.5–7.0).
Humidity
Average outdoor humidity is ideal. In cold climates, protect from desiccating winter winds to prevent leaf scorch.
Pruning Instructions
Minimal pruning needed. Lightly shape after flowering or in late winter. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing wood. Promptly prune out any solid-green reversion shoots to preserve variegation. Wear gloves—leaves are spiny.
Winter Care
Mulch 2–3 in over the root zone (keep off the trunk). In Zone 6, provide wind protection (burlap screen) for first winters. Water during dry spells when soils are not frozen.
Planting Depth
Set the crown at or 1–2 in (2.5–5 cm) above finished grade to allow for settling and to protect against rot. Do not bury the stem flare.
Fertilization
Feed lightly in early spring with a slow‑release, balanced, acid‑loving shrub fertilizer or incorporate compost. Avoid heavy nitrogen that can reduce variegation; do not fertilize late in the season.
Special Care
Ensure adequate light to maintain color; monitor for scale and aphids; avoid waterlogged sites. For containers, refresh the top 2–3 in of mix annually and repot every 2–3 years into a slightly larger pot with sharp drainage.
Tip: In very hot climates, a few hours of afternoon shade will keep variegation bright and prevent leaf scorch.
