Osmanthus x fortunei

Common Name:
Fortune’s Osmanthus

Description:
Osmanthus x fortunei, or Fortune’s Osmanthus, is a robust, evergreen shrub or small tree prized for its dense foliage, compact habit, and fragrant blooms. A hybrid between Osmanthus fragrans and Osmanthus heterophyllus, it inherits the best of both parents—vigorous growth, handsome holly-like leaves, and deliciously scented flowers. In Melbourne gardens, it performs reliably in full sun to part shade, thriving in well-drained soil and tolerating both drought and moderate frost once established. Its glossy, dark green foliage provides year-round structure, while in autumn to early winter, it produces small, creamy white flowers that release a sweet, apricot-like fragrance, often before they’re seen. Osmanthus x fortunei is ideal for hedging, screening, or as a standalone feature shrub. It responds well to pruning and is low-maintenance, making it a fantastic option for formal or informal landscapes.

Form:
Shrub - Large
Tree - Small

Mature Size:
Height: 3 – 5 m
Width: 2.5 – 4 m

Aspect:
Full Sun
Part Shade

Flowering:
Flowers in Autumn
Flowers in Early Winter

Flower Colour:
Creamy White

Key Attributes:
Suitable for Hedging
Scented flowers
Perennial
Suitable for Topiary
Drought Tolerant
Low Maintenance
Frost Tolerant (once established)

Toxicity:
Non-toxic to humans and animals

Companion Plants:
Camellia sasanqua
Viburnum tinus
Ligustrum japonicum
Magnolia 'Teddy Bear'
Nandina domestica

For more information and photos of this species, Warners Nursery has detailed information available to the public here