An exceptional Tea Olive that we love. New growth emerges pink before changing to lacquer white and finally deep green. This period of transition lasts for months and is far showier than the small white flowers that cluster at the leaf axils in autumn. They do, however, emit a sweet perfume that is detectable for many yards. Great cold hardiness for a broad leaved evergreen enduring temps below 0ºF with no harm. Tolerates subfreezing wind and would be a fantastic and showy hedge to block the east wind. To 7′ tall in 7′ years eventually reaching small tree size. Full sun to part shade in average to enriched soil where there is never standing water in summer. Tolerates clay soils on slopes and it is best with about 3 deep soaks per summer once well established. Mulch when planting. Avoid reflected heat. Moderately deer resistant. Blooms on old wood. Prune if needed AFTER blooming has ended. Naturally dense habit. As the shrub matures the leaves which are mildly prickly in youth change to smooth edged entire leaves. Pretty, tough, dynamic shrub. Japan.
Osmanthus heterophyllus ‘Akebono’
Family: Oleaceae Genus: Osmanthus
Plant type: Hedge or Screen, Shrub
Biomes/Growing conditions: Dry Shade, Hot Aspects, Low Water/No Water, Oregon Coast
Sun exposure: Full Sun, Part Shade, Shade
USDA Hardiness zone: Zn6a -5º to -10ºF
Foliage color: Dark Green, Red/Pink
Foliage season: Evergreen