Osmanthus heterophyllus 'Goshiki' is a stunning variegated evergreen shrub prized for its beautifully coloured, holly-like foliage. The name 'Goshiki' translates to 'five colours' in Japanese, referring to the striking mix of new growth that emerges in shades of pink, bronze and cream before maturing to deep green speckled with golden-cream variegation. This creates a year-round display of multi-toned foliage that brings lasting interest to any garden setting.

In autumn, small, sweetly fragrant white flowers appear among the leaves, adding a subtle but delightful scent to the garden. This compact, slow-growing shrub is well suited to borders, containers, low hedging and courtyard or Japanese-style gardens. It is fully hardy and thrives in a sheltered position in full sun or partial shade, where its variegation develops its best colour.

What You Receive

• 1 x Osmanthus heterophyllus 'Goshiki' supplied as a 19cm root-ball, garden ready for outdoor planting

Key Features

• Variegated evergreen foliage with shades of pink, cream, bronze and green


• Compact, bushy habit ideal for borders, containers and low hedging


• Small, fragrant white flowers in autumn


• Fully hardy and suitable for year-round outdoor growing in the UK


• Slow-growing and low maintenance once established


• Holly-like leaves add architectural interest

Planting and Care

Plant in well-drained, fertile soil in a sheltered spot in full sun to partial shade. Full sun encourages the strongest variegation. Water regularly during the first growing season to help the plant establish. Once settled, Osmanthus Goshiki requires minimal watering except during prolonged dry spells. A light trim in late spring helps maintain a neat, compact shape. Mulch around the base annually to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Cultural Information

• Botanical Name: Osmanthus heterophyllus 'Goshiki'


• Common Names: Goshiki Osmanthus, Variegated False Holly, Five-Colour Osmanthus


• Classification: Evergreen shrub


• Fully Grown Height & Spread: 1–1.5 m × 1–1.5 m


• Growth Habit: Compact, Bushy, Slow-Growing Evergreen Shrub


• Perfect for: Borders, Containers, Low Hedging, Courtyard Gardens, Japanese Gardens


• Flowering Time: Autumn (small, sweetly fragrant white flowers)


• Planting Position: Full Sun to Partial Shade, Sheltered


• Soil: Well-Drained, Fertile Soil


• Attracts: Bees and Pollinators


• Type: Hardy Evergreen Shrub


• Foliage: Variegated Holly-Like Leaves – New Growth in Pink, Bronze and Cream Maturing to Green with Golden-Cream Markings


• Hardiness: Fully Hardy (RHS H5)

Notes: This listing is for the Goshiki variety, known for its distinctive multi-coloured variegated foliage.