Pittosporum tenuifolium

USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map

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Pittosporum tenuifolium (Kohuhu) is a beautiful large shrub native to New Zealand that can grow up to 5-10 ft tall and 2-5 ft wide. It is popular for its unusual and fragrant dark brown flowers that bloom at night and have an intense honey perfume. This species is also known for their glossy crinkly leaves, which can be quite attractive, especially in the autumn and winter months.

Pittosporum tenuifolium can be established in the garden in USDA Zone: 8-10, and it can either be planted in full sun or semi-shade. It is important to ensure that the plant has regular water, as it is not drought tolerant. This shrub is recommended for homeowners who want a low-maintenance, low-water ornamental to add to their garden.

To ensure it grows properly, it is important to take special care of this shrub not only when you first plant it, but also throughout its life. It should be planted in a well-drained soil, so you might find it helpful to dig in some compost when planting. This will help the plant thrive and prevent it from suffering from any diseases. Once planted, water your shrub periodically and apply a good layer of mulch to protect the roots and discourage weeds.

If you are growing Pittosporum tenuifolium in a pot in cold regions, be sure to take special care of it in winter. Make sure it is kept in a warmer area, so it is less exposed to the cold temperatures and frost. Keep it properly watered and protected from strong winds, and consider wrapping the pot with an insulator to help protect the plant. In addition, you may want to repot the tree in a larger pot annually to allow more room for the roots to breathe and ensure its long-term survival.

Pittosporum tobira

In general the Japanese pittosporum grows taller in the shade while those grown in full sun are more compact. The leathery leaves are glossy on the top with undersides that are lighter and have a dull surface. These very ornamental leaves reach a length of from 1-5 in and up to 1 in wide with edges that recurve (curl down and inward).The small flowers are about 0.5" in diameter and are held in clusters at the branch tips. They are pure white when they emerge from the bud and slowly age to a mellow creamy yellow. This plant is very adaptable and will grow in most soils except for those that are constantly wet. Moderate moisture is required for fastest growth and best looks. Established plants are able to survive long periods of drought but will look the worse for wear - will recover when adequate moisture is obtained. Propagation: By cuttings and seeds.

Pittosporum undulatum

A large evergreen shrub or tree usually growing 4-14 m tall, but capable of growing up to 20 m in height. The creamy-white flowers are strongly scented and borne in small clusters (containing 4-5 flowers) at the tips of the branches. Separate male and female flowers are usually borne on different plants.

Pittosporum viridiflorum

Small, greenish-white, sweetly fragant flowers.

This plant makes a good garden plant, growing in either in full sun or semi-shade.