Fragrant Olive

Osmanthus fragrans

Physical Characteristics

Osmanthus fragrans is an evergreen Shrub growing to 6 m (19ft) by 6 m (19ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. It is in leaf all year, in flower from June to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very alkaline soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - China, Japan, Himalayas.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Condiment The unripe fruits are preserved in brine like olives[183]. The very fragrant flowers are used by the Chinese to impart a pleasant aroma to tea, wine and sweet dishes such as lotus seed soup, pastries and steamed pears[2, 46, 61, 183]. They are also added to herbal medicines in order to disguise obnoxious flavours[178]. The flowers have a scent of apricots[146].

Medicinal Uses

Antitussive The flowers are antitussive[218]. They are used in cosmetics for the hair and skin, but are mostly used to flavour other medicines[218]. A decoction of the stem bark is used in the treatment of boils, carbuncles etc[218]. A past made from the stem or bark is used in the treatment of boils, carbuncles, whoping cough and retinitis[272]. A decoction of the lateral roots is used in the treatment of dysmenorrhoea, rheumatism, bruises etc[218].

Known Hazards

None known