The Fragrant Olive (Osmanthus) isn’t a showy tree. You wouldn’t know there was something special about its restrained appearance. It’s a plant that reveals itself on a gentle breeze if you’re lucky enough to be nearby. The scent of its tiny blooms is fuzzy apricot with a richness and creaminess. Like a dessert you can only have a small portion of but always leaves you wanting just a spoonful more! Osmanthus reminds me of late Spring when the grass first begins to dry off, a warmer cousin to Daphne, it layers the smell of stone fruit, citrus and violets with sun warmed hay and the sound of crickets. Barefoot weather. Osmanthus is the excuse to pad through the garden in search of herbs for dinner, to stop and take in the generosity of the afternoon.