Fragrant Tea Olive Tree - Osmanthus fragrans

Fragrant Tea Olive Tree (Osmanthus fragrans)

The Fragrant Tea Olive Tree, botanically known as Osmanthus fragrans, is an evergreen ornamental tree celebrated for its intensely sweet fragrance and glossy green foliage. Small white flowers appear in clusters and release a perfume often compared to jasmine and gardenia. Many gardeners buy Fragrant Tea Olive trees online for their elegant appearance, year-round greenery, and unforgettable scent that drifts through the garden.

Landscaping Uses

The Fragrant Tea Olive tree is a versatile landscape plant often used as a hedge, privacy screen, or fragrant accent near patios, walkways, and entryways. Its dense evergreen foliage creates structure and privacy in the landscape while the seasonal blooms add fragrance to outdoor living spaces. This ornamental tree is especially popular in southern gardens where it can be shaped into a hedge or grown as a small standalone tree.

Specifications

Height: 10–20 ft
Width: 6–10 ft
Growth Rate: Slow to Moderate
Sun: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Water: Moderate during establishment, low once established
Soil: Prefers well-drained soil but adapts to various soil types
USDA Zones: 8–11

Why Homeowners Love It

• Highly fragrant white flowers that perfume the garden
• Evergreen foliage provides year-round structure and color
• Can be shaped into hedges, screens, or small ornamental trees
• Drought tolerant and relatively low maintenance once established

Planting & Care

Fragrant Tea Olive trees grow best in well-drained soil with full sun to partial shade. Dig a planting hole about twice the width of the root ball and plant at the same depth it was growing in the container. Water regularly during the first growing season to help the roots establish. Once mature, the tree becomes drought tolerant and requires only occasional pruning to maintain shape, making it a long-lasting and fragrant addition to many U.S. gardens.