top of page

Goshiki False Holly

Osmanthus

The Autumn Perfume: Osmanthus heterophyllus (False Holly)


The Snapshot

  • Common Name: False Holly, Tea Olive, Holly Osmanthus

  • Scientific Name: Osmanthus heterophyllus

  • Origin: Japan and Taiwan

  • Hardiness: Zones 6b – 9 (Rock-solid in Central/South Jersey; give it a protected spot in North Jersey).

  • The "Vibe": Polished, secretive, and aromatic; the "elegant evergreen" with a hidden talent.

Why It’s a Jersey Garden Essential

  • The "Invisible" Fragrance: Unlike most flowering shrubs that show off big petals, Osmanthus hides its tiny white flowers deep within its evergreen foliage. You won't see them, but you will smell them from 50 feet away in October and November.

  • The "Better" Holly: It looks exactly like a holly, but it’s more refined. The leaves are incredibly glossy and stay a deep, rich green even during the greyest NJ winters.

  • Versatile Variegation: Some of the most popular varieties for NJ, like 'Goshiki', feature stunning flecks of cream, gold, and lime-green, making the plant look like it's glowing even on a cloudy day.

  • Impenetrable Privacy: Because the leaves are spiny (like a holly), it makes an outstanding security hedge that even the most daring neighborhood pets won't try to push through.

Stories from the Garden

"I planted a row of 'Goshiki' Osmanthus along my patio in Princeton. For most of the year, they are just beautiful, colorful evergreen bushes. But when October hits? Oh my goodness. The scent is like apricots and cream—it’s so strong it drifts right into the house through the windows. It’s the perfect way to end the garden season. Plus, they survived that 'Polar Vortex' snowstorm a few years ago without losing a single leaf."

— Sarah D., Zone 7 Gardener (Princeton, NJ)


Designer Tips: Where to Plant

  • The "Scented Screen": Plant a row near your outdoor seating area or under a window. It turns a standard privacy hedge into a sensory experience.

  • The "Glow" Spot: Use 'Goshiki' to brighten up a dark corner of the yard. Its variegated leaves reflect light even in partial shade.

  • The Winter Interest Bed: Pair with Red-Twig Dogwood and PJM Rhododendron. The dark green (or variegated) leaves of the Osmanthus provide the perfect "anchor" for the brighter winter stems.

Designer Pro-Tip: Osmanthus is often mistaken for Holly. How can you tell the difference? Check the branch! Osmanthus has opposite leaves (the leaves grow in pairs directly across from each other), while Holly has alternate leaves. Knowing this will make you look like a total pro at the nursery!

bottom of page