Fragrant Princess Dwarf Tea Olive
Osmanthus 'Kaori Hime'
This has to be one of the most incredible new introductions of this species in recent memory. ( Nurseries Caroliniana ) "We found this cultivar in Japan in November, 2009 and the parent plant was in full flower". The leaves are typical of this species, but are only 3/8" long. But the most remarkable thing about it is that it will flower when only a few inches tall. Many plants this dwarf rarely flower, if ever, but the flowers are full size, so they put on quite a show and are just as fragrant as the species. We don't know the ultimate size of this cultivar, but it is thought to only get 1 to 2' in height. Ideal for a rock garden or very confined spaces or even as a container plant. This is the first Tea Olive that I would ever recommend for bonsai.
Bloom Time : Fall
Mature Height : 2-3 feet
Mature Width : 2-3 feet
Exposure : Full sun to partial shade
Hardiness Zones : 6-10