Description
The Tea Olive is a fast growing, large, upright evergreen shrub or small tree that can reach 20 ft height and 6-8 ft wide, but is usually seen in landscapes at 6-10 ft high. During the entire Spring and Fall seasons, fragrant, white flowers are produced in abundance. Individually the blossoms are small and inconspicuous, but the fragrance is powerful and exquisite. The leaves are dark, rich green and the edges finely toothed. The new growth in spring is reddish orange.

Native Origin
The tea olive is native to parts of Asia.

Culture
Tea olive prefers reasonably good soil, but is adaptable except in the poorest, sandy soil. May be pruned to maintain size and encourage branching, but thrives equally well with neglect.

Light: Sun to partial shade or morning sun with afternoon shade.

Moisture: Average to moist

Hardiness: USDA Zones 8 to 10.

Usage
Plant tea olives where their lovely fragrance can be enjoyed! Situate a tea olive wherever there is foot traffic near windows or doors and in outdoor sitting areas. Incorporate tea olive into foundation plantings at the corners or use as an accent between windows. A row of tea olive makes a very attractive hedge or screen. Tea Olive can also be grown in large containers or planters.

Outstanding Features
Tea olive has deliciously fragrant flowers that smell a lot like those of fringetree (Chionanthus virginicus), which is in the same family. Tea olive is a traditional element in the southern garden landscape and a whiff of its scent carried on a cool sprring or fall breeze makes a memorable impression. A must in every southern landscape!

Pruning - Usually does not require pruning except for a stray branch or two but may be pruned or sheared to a more formal shape. Pruning is best performed after bloom in spring or fall or when plant is not actively blooming during summer or winter.

To get coupon for Tea Olives, redeemable at Wilson Bros. Nursery, click here.

2006 Plant of The Week Archives