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Tea-scented bush (Osmanthus yunnanensis) 60-80 cm
695 SEK
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695 SEK
Unit price perTea-scented shrub of the species Osmanthus yunnanensis - current height: 60-80 cm
For the more well-known sibling species Osmanthus fragrans see here.
The main reason we have included this sibling species (O. yunnanensis) in the range is that we are testing differences in hardiness/vigour in our climate.
Common names: Tea-scented shrub, Yunnan Tea Olive
Scientific name: Osmanthus yunnanensis
Family: Oleaceae
Plant history & use:
Tea-scented shrub, or simply called Osmanthus, is a very attractive shrub of Asian origin related to lilac and has many different uses. The flowers smell delightfully apricot-like and are widely used as a flavouring for teas in China. The shrub also produces edible fruits which resemble olives both in shape and in their method of preparation. The shrub is also evergreen with strong, fine foliage and is well suited as a privacy hedge in sheltered locations.
The scent of apricots often spreads far in the garden when the shrub is in bloom. These flowers are used not only to flavour so-called Osmanthus teas, but also to flavour desserts, baked goods, wines, other alcoholic drinks, and even dishes. An essential oil can also be obtained from the flowers.
The fruits resemble olives and, just like olives, they are prepared by being placed in brine. Surprisingly similar to pickled olives.
Flowers are also added to various modern medicines to mask unpleasant tastes. In traditional medicine, the flowers are used, among other things, as a cough suppressant. Other parts of the plant have a range of health-giving properties which interested readers can learn more about.
Originates from the Chinese provinces of Sichuan and Yunnan.
In short, an apricot-scented Chinese lilac with edible olive-like fruits.
Cultivation:
Hardy down to USDA zone 7, an approximate translation to Swedish zones is zone 1-2 in sheltered locations. The species O. yunnanensis is said to withstand temperatures down to -15ºC; there is a specimen growing and thriving in St Andrews Botanic Garden in southeastern Scotland.
Well suited as a privacy hedge in sheltered locations thanks to its dense growth and evergreen foliage. However, it should not be placed as a hedge in locations directly exposed to strong cold winter winds.
Tolerant of many different soil types. Prefers mostly sunny locations with some light shade in our climate. Partial shade also works. Thrives very well against a warm south-facing wall. Very drought-tolerant. The flowers become more colourful in sunny locations.
Grows somewhat slowly at first. Once established, it can grow as much as 50 cm in one season. Blooms during the colder months of the year, that is from autumn to spring.
Can reach up to 12 metres. In Sweden, probably much lower. Can be shaped into a fine grown tree.
Tolerant of pruning, preferably pruned in April. Flowering occurs on last year’s shoots.
Can be fertilised with natural fertiliser in early spring.
Valued for its strong disease resistance.
Flowers can vary from golden to orange to reddish.
Characteristics:
Longevity: Perennial
Light: sun/partial shade
Height: 2-12 metres
USDA zone: 7-11
Plant zone: approximate translation 1-2
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