What is osmanthus?

osmanthus is a genus of flowering, evergreen trees and shrubs in the Oleaceae family. Plants produce small white flowers in spring, summer or autumn, which are not only beautiful and fragrant, but also used in many Asian meals and tea. Many species in this family also produce small round fruit, which is dark purple or blue, and all have green, oval leaves in the shape of an oval. They grow best in warm climate and are found mainly in Asia.

It is also commonly used as an ornamental plant in the gardens. They are also usually used as hedges and can serve as good screening plants. Depending on the species, plants in this family can grow to the size of shrubs to small trees, about 6.5 to 40 feet (2 to 12 meters).

In the family osmanthus there are more than 30 species. Most of them come from the warm, slight climate of Asia, although there is one species that is originally for the Southern Regions of the United States and NorthMexico; The type osmanthus Americanus , commonly known as Devilwood, can be found in warmer areas of the US, from Texas to Virginia.

Plants

osmanthus enjoy mild climate and good land. They can grow in the sun on a partial shadow and can be dresses directly in the soil or pots. Although they do not tolerate cold weather, they can be kept in colder climate and brought in during the winter months.

Type osmanthus fragrans , also known as sweet osmanthus, tea olive, sweet olive or kinmokusei in Japan, is known for its strong, sweet scent. It produces a popular flower that is a traditional symbol of love and romance in Asian countries and is often used in wedding ceremonies. The smell of sweet osmanthus is also common for use in perfumes.

Flowers from osmanthusa plants were traditionally used in many Asianh beverages and tea. Flowers can be cooked into teas themselves, or can be mixed with green or oolong teas to add scent and sweetness. Dried flower buds were also used to make fragrant, sweet liqueurs.

In Asia, flowers osmanthus are not only popular for use in tea, but also in cooking. Flowers are commonly used to create a jam that is sweet as flowers. You can also find it boiled in a variety of meals, from sweet cakes to soup.