Sweet olive (Osmanthus fragrans, Zones 8-10) is one of the horticultural treasures that Southerners enjoy in their gardens. We have only to step outside in late winter or early spring when the sweet olive blooms to detect its heady scent wafting on the air. For those of us who enjoy fragrance in the garden and live in regions with mild winters, the sweet olive is a “must have” plant.
Native to Asia, the sweet olive is a large shrub or small tree that is capable of growing 20 to 30 feet tall in mild coastal areas. In regions farther north, damage from low temperatures limits its growth, so it is more frequently seen at 10 to 15 feet tall. Nevertheless, those who can grow sweet olive are sure to include it in their gardens, for it can fill a large garden space with its fragrance.
Even when tucked into back nooks and crannies, its impact can be significant. The fragrance, which is produced by visually insignificant tiny white flowers that bloom in clusters along the stems, can be smelled from several hundred feet away. One might never notice sweet olive except for its enticing fragrance, for it is a nondescript, green, somewhat rangy shrub. Dark green, glossy foliage is borne alternately along the stems and it is attractive enough. However, it is likely not a first choice of the gardener who must have perfectly shaped plants.
