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Osmanthus heterophyllus Goshiki
Common Name: Holly Osmanthus
Osmanthus heterophyllus ‘Goshiki’
Goshiki Osmanthus / Variegated False Holly / Holly Olive
Osmanthus heterophyllus ‘Goshiki’ is a slow-growing broadleaf evergreen shrub valued for its colorful, holly-like foliage. New growth often emerges pinkish-bronze to coppery, then matures into a mix of green, gold, cream, yellow, and white variegation. The leaves are stiff, glossy, and spiny when young, giving the plant a holly-like look without being a true holly. Small, fragrant white flowers may appear in fall, but they are often partly hidden by the dense foliage.
Type: Broadleaf evergreen shrub
Mature Size: 4–8 ft. wide × 4–10 ft. tall; slow growing and usually kept smaller in landscapes
10-Year Size: About 4 ft. wide × 3–5 ft. tall
USDA Zones: 6a–9b
Form: Dense, compact, mounded to upright-rounded shrub
Light: Full sun to part shade; best variegation with some sun
Soil / Water: Well-drained soil; average moisture; fairly drought tolerant once established
Bloom Time / Length: Fall, often September–November; flowers may last 2–4 weeks
Wildlife: Fragrant flowers may attract bees and other late-season insects; dense evergreen foliage provides bird cover; generally deer resistant
Features & Landscape Uses:
Excellent for foundation plantings, mixed borders, evergreen accents, low screens, hedges, containers, and shade-to-part-sun gardens. The colorful foliage gives year-round interest and works well as a substitute for variegated holly where a softer, slower-growing evergreen shrub is desired. It can be clipped into a hedge or allowed to grow naturally as a rounded specimen.
Care:
Plant in well-drained soil and water regularly during establishment. Once established, it needs only occasional watering during dry periods. Prune lightly after flowering or in early spring to shape. Avoid heavy shearing if you want a natural look. Protect from harsh winter wind in colder parts of zone 6.
| Plant Type: | Broadleaf Evergreen |
| Width: | 4-8' |
| Height: | 4-10' |
| Fragrant: | Yes |
| Fruit: | Yes |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
| Zone: | 6–9 |
| Deer Resistant: | Yes |
| Salt Tolerant: | Not verified |
| Drought Tolerant: | No |
| Attract: | Bees |
| Exposure: | Full Sun, Partial Shade |
| Bloom Time: | Early Fall, Fall |
| Bark Type: | Smooth |
| Landscape/Use: | Container, Mass Planting, Foundation Plant |
| Shape: | Rounded, Upright, Compact, Dense |
| Soil Type | Well Drained, Average |
| Flower Color: | Vanilla |
| Leaf Color: | Dark Spring Green |
| Fall Color: |