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Osmanthus Heterophyllus

I went into my back yard to make a quick walk through. This time of year some interesting things are happening, but I often miss them because school is in full swing. I was bending over to admire a nasturtium plant that grew from a seed that fell off of last summer’s plants, when I noticed a deliciously sweet smell. It was much like honey-suckle. I didn’t immediately see the source because I didn’t immediately see any flowers.

The purple flowers don't count.  Dahlias don't have a pleasant scent.

Then I remembered the Osmanthus heterophyllus (False Holly). I got it because I liked the shape of the evergreen leaves, but as a bonus, it blooms late in the fall with sweetly scented flowers. I’ll be looking forward to the next warmish day we have. That’s when the flower fragrances really come out.

The word osmanthus is derived from Greek osma, meaning 'fragrant', and anthos, meaning 'flower'.

I read that some people make tea with the dried flowers. I probably won’t do that.

4 Comments

  1. Lauren

    Your knowledge of plants is reaching the scary level. No wonder you have bumps on your head – it’s floral information bursting out!

    • Peggy

      HA! You funny!

      And I agree. It’s getting like computer lingo…too. many. big. scary. words!

      Congratulations on your delicious discovery Brad!

  2. Beth

    But don’t you think the tea would taste like honey suckle? Well, after you add a ton of sugar, which is the only way to like tea.

    Because now I’m curious.

  3. Carol

    If only the tech-savy in Bradaptationland would devise a way all us readers could inhale deeply and also appreciate this marvelous scent. Until that becomes reality, all I can add is “beautiful foliage!”

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