Quick answer: American olive (Osmanthus americanus) is native to 8 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. No live listing of the true species was found as of 03 Nov 2026.
Photo: Richard Carter, Valdosta State University (Bugwood), Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0 US)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Part Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | Moist |
| Soil | Rich, moist, well-drained soil |
| Bloom | Bloom Feb-May |
| Height | Up to 45 ft, often shorter |
| Wildlife value | Fruit provides food for wildlife, fragrant flowers attract pollinators |
Buying it
No live listing of the true wild species was found as of 03 Nov 2026 — that means our last search didn't surface one, not that the plant is unavailable.
No live seed or plant listing found as of 03 Nov 2026. That means our last search didn't surface one — not that the plant is unavailable. Try a regional native-plant nursery.
Quick answers about American olive
Where is American olive native?
American olive (Osmanthus americanus) is native to Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does American olive bloom?
American olive blooms Feb-May. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does American olive need?
Light: Part Shade. Water: Moist. Soil: Rich, moist, well-drained soil. Mature height: Up to 45 ft, often shorter.
Is American olive good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Fruit provides food for wildlife, fragrant flowers attract pollinators.
Is American olive deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
American olive is tolerates shade.
Where can I buy American olive?
We haven't found an online listing of the true wild species as of 03 Nov 2026. A regional native-plant nursery or native seed company is your best source; ask for Osmanthus americanus by its scientific name.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with American olive.
- Yaupon holly Ilex vomitoria
- Titi cyrilla Cyrilla racemiflora
- American wisteria Wisteria frutescens
- Southern crabapple Malus angustifolia
- Silky camellia Stewartia malacodendron
- Sourwood Oxydendrum arboreum
Also listed under
Get the full buying guide
Every pick worth knowing across pollinators, shade, drought and more, in one PDF, with the tradeoffs spelled out. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.