Osmanthus Purpurea is an evergreen shrub with a naturally dense, rounded habit. Young foliage emerges purple-bronze, creating a striking contrast against mature, glossy deep-green leaves. In late summer to fall, small white flowers appear in clusters and release a powerful, sweet fragrance reminiscent of apricot and jasmine. Tough and versatile, it tolerates pruning, urban conditions, and a range of soils provided drainage is good. Its slow-to-moderate growth and long lifespan make it a reliable backbone plant for refined, low-maintenance gardens.

• FragrantClip for a dense, formal boundary or let it mature into a natural privacy screen near patios and paths.
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  Entryway Specimen

  Plant by doors or windows to enjoy autumn perfume and year-round structure.

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  Large Containers

  Excellent in 18–24 inch planters for terraces and courtyards; prune lightly to maintain size.

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  Espalier & Backdrops

  Trains well on a fence or wall for a refined, evergreen backdrop with seasonal fragrance.

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  Mixed Borders

  Partners beautifully with camellias, azaleas, and Japanese maples for layered, four-season interest.

• Botanical NameOsmanthus Purpurea (often offered as a purple-foliage selection within the Osmanthus group)
• Common NameOsmanthus Purpurea; tea-olive; holly osmanthus (purple new growth selection)
• Size & GrowthMature size typically 8–12 ft tall x 6–8 ft wide; naturally dense, rounded habit; responds well to light shaping.
• Hardiness ZonesUSDA Zones 7–10 (with protection in 6b; shelter from severe winter winds).
• Foliage TypeEvergreen; new growth emerges purple-bronze, maturing to glossy deep green, leathery leaves.
• Bloom TimeLate summer to fall; sporadic light rebloom in spring in mild climates; small white, powerfully fragrant flowers.
• Growth RateSlow to moderate; approximately 6–12 inches per year after establishment depending on climate and soil.
• Light RequirementsFull sun to part shade; best foliage color in morning sun with light afternoon shade in hot regions.
• Attracts PollinatorsYes—bees and other late-season pollinators are drawn to the nectar-rich blossoms.
• Indoor FriendlyGenerally not suited for long-term indoor culture; can overwinter in a bright, cool sunroom in cold climates.
• Container FriendlyYes—grows well in large containers (18–24 in+) with consistent moisture and periodic feeding.
• Deer ResistantTypically deer-resistant; tough, leathery leaves are seldom browsed.
• Pet WarningGenerally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs; ingestion may cause mild stomach upset—discourage chewing.
• FragrantIntensely fragrant flowers—sweet, apricot-jasmine scent used near entries and seating areas.
• Cut FlowerNot a classic cut flower, but short sprigs add exceptional fragrance to small arrangements (3–5 day vase life).
• Grows Well WithGrows Well With Camellia, Azalea, Pieris, Sarcococca, Gardenia, Mahonia, Nandina, Fatsia, Japanese maple, Heuchera.

Note: Attributes represent typical performance for purple-foliage Osmanthus selections; individual cultivars may vary slightly by climate and culture.

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  Planting Instructions

  Plant in spring or fall. Dig a hole 2–3× the width of the rootball and the same depth; set crown level with soil. Loosen circling roots, backfill with native soil + 10–20% compost, water deeply, and mulch 2–3 in (keep mulch off the trunk).

• Soil MoistureKeep evenly moist during the first growing season; once established, water when the top 2 in of soil are dry. Avoid prolonged sogginess.
• Soil TypeWell-drained loam or sandy loam; tolerates clay if amended for drainage. pH slightly acidic to neutral (≈6.0–7.0).
• HumidityAdaptable; prefers moderate ambient humidity. Provide wind protection in exposed, hot sites to reduce leaf scorch.
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  Pruning Instructions

  Minimal pruning needed. Remove dead/crossing wood anytime. For shaping or hedging, prune after flowering in fall, or lightly in late winter; note that heavy summer pruning can reduce fall bloom.

• Winter CareMulch 3–4 in over the root zone and water during dry spells. In colder zones, shield from harsh winds; move containers to a sheltered spot or unheated garage during severe cold snaps.
• Planting DepthPlace so the top of the rootball is level with or slightly above surrounding grade; do not bury the stem flare.
• FertilizationIn early spring, apply a slow‑release balanced or acid‑forming shrub fertilizer at label rates; an optional light midsummer feed supports container plants. Avoid high nitrogen late in the season.
• Special CareEnsure good drainage; prevent waterlogging. Monitor for scale or sooty mold; treat early. If leaves yellow on alkaline soils, amend with iron chelate. Suitable for espalier; rejuvenation pruning can be staged over 2–3 years.