Osmanthus heterophyllus ‘Gulftide’, commonly known as Gulftide False Holly, is a dense, upright broadleaf evergreen shrub prized for its holly-like foliage and fragrant white flowers in fall. With spiny, dark green leaves and a naturally columnar form, ‘Gulftide’ typically grows 6 to 10 feet tall and 4 to 6 feet wide, making it an excellent choice for narrow screens, privacy hedges, and foundation plantings. Its sweet-scented blooms appear in autumn, adding subtle seasonal interest. Though versatile and ornamental, Gulftide is non-native and offers limited ecological value in native-focused landscapes.

Why choose Gulftide False Holly:

• Fragrant fall blooms: Small white flowers emit a sweet scent in autumn

• Upright evergreen form: Great for narrow hedging and structural planting

• Low-maintenance: Tolerates pruning, shade, and a range of soils

Cultivating tips:

• Sun exposure: Performs best in full sun to part shade

• Soil needs: Prefers moist, well-drained soil; adaptable to clay and loam

• Maintenance: Prune in late winter or after flowering to maintain shape

Designs for your garden:

• Narrow screens: Ideal for tight spaces where year-round privacy is needed

• Foundation plantings: Provides structure, foliage interest, and subtle fragrance

• Mixed borders: Pairs well with native evergreens and flowering shrubs

Ecological considerations:

• Non-native species: Offers little benefit to native pollinators or wildlife

• Not invasive: Well-behaved and compact in garden settings

• Pair with natives: Use alongside native shrubs to enhance ecological value

Looking for native alternatives?

Ilex glabra ‘Shamrock’ – Shamrock Inkberry: A compact native evergreen shrub with glossy foliage that thrives in sun or part shade.
Ilex glabra ‘Compacta’ – Compact Inkberry: Dense, rounded form perfect for low hedging and evergreen structure in native plantings.
Ilex opaca – American Holly: A tall native evergreen tree with spiny leaves and red berries that provide habitat and winter food for birds.