Wasowski, Sally and Andy
Osmanthus americanus (L.) Benth. & Hook. f. ex Gray
Devilwood, Wild olive
Oleaceae (Olive Family)
Evergreen shrub or small
tree with narrow,
oblong crown of paired, glossy, leathery leaves, and with dark blue
fruit like small olives. Devilwood or wild olive is an irregularly rounded and open
shrub or small
tree to 30 ft. with an equal spread. Its long,
evergreen leaves are light green and leathery. The small, creamy-white flowers are extremely fragrant and are followed by blue-black
fruit which resembles small cherries.
Devilwood was so named because the fine-textured wood is difficult to split and work. The
fruit resembles the cultivated Olive in the same family. The
genus name, Osmanthus, from the Greek words for odor and flower, refers to the fragrant blossoms.
Image Gallery:
2 photo(s) available
Plant Characteristics
Duration: Perennial Habit: Tree Fruit: Size Class: 12-36 ft.
Bloom Information
Bloom Color: White
Bloom Time: Apr , May
Distribution
USA: AL , FL , GA , LA , MS , NC , SC , TX , VA
Native Distribution: Coastal Plain from extreme s.e. VA to FL, w. to LA
Native Habitat: Rich woods; swamps
USDA Native Status: L48(N) Growing Conditions
Light Requirement: Part Shade
Soil Moisture: Moist
Soil Description: Rich, moist, well-drained soil.
Conditions Comments: Wild olive can be liberally pruned to maintain shape.
Last Update: 2009-02-18
