Pittosporum

Scientific Name

Pittosporum tobira

Description

Pittosporum is a genus of about 200 species of evergreen shrubs and small trees belonging to the Pittosporaceae family. Native to Australia, New Zealand, and parts of Asia, they are celebrated for their attractive foliage and fragrant flowers. Many species are cultivated for ornamental purposes in gardens and landscapes.

Pittosporum generally features glossy, leathery leaves that can be oval or rounded in shape, often ranging in color from dark green to variegated patterns of green and yellow. The plants can grow between 1 to 15 meters in height, depending on the species and growing conditions. The most common variety for landscaping is Pittosporum tobira, known for its dense growth habit and fragrant, creamy white flowers that bloom in spring.

These plants are adaptable and can thrive in various soil types, preferring well-drained conditions. They are drought-tolerant once established, making them ideal for low-maintenance gardens. Pittosporums are commonly used as hedges or screening plants due to their bushy nature and ability to withstand pruning.

In terms of care, they grow best in full sun to partial shade and require moderate watering, particularly during dry spells. While they are generally pest-resistant, they can occasionally attract scale insects or aphids. Overall, Pittosporum is valued for its versatility, ornamental appeal, and ability to enhance garden aesthetics with its lush foliage and pleasant fragrance.

Where it Grows

When to Plant

When to Plant Pittosporum

Pittosporum, commonly known as broom bush or Japanese mock orange, is a versatile and hardy plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions. Whether you're interested in using it as an ornamental shrub or a privacy hedge, knowing when to plant is crucial for promoting healthy growth.

Seasonal Considerations

The best time to plant Pittosporum is during the spring or early fall, depending on your climate zone. Here's a more detailed breakdown:

• Spring Planting: In most temperate regions, planting in spring (after the last frost) is advantageous. This allows the plant to establish roots before the stress of the summer heat. Mid-to-late spring is particularly favorable, as temperatures are warming and soil conditions are suitable for growth.

• Fall Planting: In milder climates, fall can also be an excellent time to plant Pittosporum. This usually means planting in early fall (before the first frost). This timing enables the roots to establish while the top growth is still somewhat dormant, allowing for strong growth the following spring.

Climate and Hardiness

Pittosporum is generally hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11, although some varieties can tolerate slightly colder regions. If you live in a warmer climate, you can plant throughout the growing season, but always avoid planting during extreme heat. Conversely, in colder climates, avoid late fall planting to ensure the young plants have time to establish before winter sets in.

Soil Temperature

Additionally, soil temperature plays a significant role in determining your planting time. Aim to plant when soil temperatures are consistently above 60°F (15°C). You can gauge soil temperature using a garden thermometer or by feeling the soil with your hands; it should feel warm to the touch.

Signs That the Time is Right

• No Frost Risk: Ensure that the threat of frost has passed (for spring planting) or is minimal (for fall planting).
• Soil Moisture: The soil should be moist but well-drained. If the soil feels waterlogged or dry, consider waiting for better conditions.
• Weather Patterns: Look for a stretch of mild weather. Ideally, plant on a cloudy day or when rain is expected but avoid heavy downpours that can wash away soil.

In summary, to ensure the successful establishment of your Pittosporum plants, pay close attention to the time of year, regional climate conditions, soil temperature, and overall weather patterns. With these considerations in mind, you can set your Pittosporum on the path to thriving growth and lush greenery in your garden.

How to Plant

Planting Pittosporum: A Step-by-Step Guide

Pittosporum, commonly known as Australian Laurel or Mock Orange, is a versatile, evergreen shrub or small tree often prized for its fragrant flowers and attractive foliage. Here's how to plant it properly to ensure healthy growth.

1. Choosing the Right Location: Pittosporum thrives in well-drained soil and prefers full sun to partial shade. Avoid areas prone to waterlogging.

2. Soil Preparation: Test the soil pH; Pittosporum generally prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0). Amend the soil with organic compost or well-rotted manure to improve drainage and nutrient content.

3. Planting: Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and the same depth. Gently remove the plant from its container, taking care not to damage the roots. Place the Pittosporum in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with or slightly above the soil surface. Fill in around the roots with soil, firming it gently.

4. Watering: After planting, water thoroughly to help settle the soil. Continue to water regularly, particularly during the first growing season, while the plant establishes its root system.

5. Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

By following these steps, your Pittosporum will flourish, adding beauty and fragrance to your garden space.

Watering

Watering a Pittosporum effectively is crucial for its health and growth, as it prefers well-draining soil and is somewhat drought-tolerant. The best strategy involves assessing the soil moisture before watering. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings, particularly during the growing season in spring and summer. Water deeply but infrequently, ensuring that moisture reaches the root zone without waterlogging the plant. During hot weather, check the soil more frequently, and adjust your watering schedule as needed. In winter, reduce watering as the plant enters a dormant period. Always use a soil moisture meter or perform the finger test to gauge when to water, aiming to establish a routine that balances moisture without causing root rot. Lastly, consider the surrounding climate and rainfall, adapting your strategy accordingly to maintain optimal moisture levels for your Pittosporum.

Pruning

Pruning a Pittosporum plant effectively encourages healthy growth and maintains its shape. The best strategy involves timing, technique, and tools. The ideal time to prune is in late winter to early spring before the new growth begins, as this minimizes stress on the plant and promotes robust foliage in the warmer months.

Start by using sharp, clean pruning shears to make precise cuts and prevent injury to the plant. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches first to improve air circulation. Next, thin out crowded areas to encourage light penetration and growth, targeting branches that cross over or rub against each other. For shaping, trim back about one-third of the last year’s growth while maintaining the natural form.

Regular maintenance pruning can be performed as needed throughout the growing season to keep the plant looking tidy and healthy. Always remember to step back occasionally to assess the overall shape and balance of the plant.

Weeding

When weeding around Pittosporum plants, it’s important to adopt a gentle but effective strategy to prevent damage to the roots and surrounding foliage. First, use a hand tool, such as a trowel or fork, to loosen the soil around the weeds without disturbing the root zone of the Pittosporum. This helps in reducing the stress on the shrub and minimizes the risk of root disturbance.

Next, carefully pull the weeds by hand, ensuring you remove the entire root to prevent regrowth. For persistent weeds, consider mulching with organic matter such as shredded bark or wood chips around the base of the Pittosporum. This not only suppresses future weed growth but also retains soil moisture and improves overall soil health. Always monitor the area for new weed growth and address it promptly to maintain a healthy and vibrant gardening space.

Mulching

Mulching is a beneficial practice for Pittosporum plants, promoting healthy growth and moisture retention. Begin by selecting an organic mulch, such as shredded bark, wood chips, or straw, as these materials decompose and enrich the soil over time.

Apply a layer of mulch 2 to 4 inches deep around the base of the Pittosporum, ensuring it does not touch the plant's stem to prevent rot and pest issues. Spread the mulch in a circle, extending it to the drip line of the plant, which is the area beneath the outer leaves where rain drips down. This strategy helps retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, suppress weed growth, and improve soil structure as the mulch breaks down.

Replenish the mulch annually to maintain its effectiveness, and always check for desiccation or compaction, adjusting as necessary for optimal health and growth of your Pittosporum.

Fertilizing

Fertilizing Pittosporum plants involves a balanced approach to ensure healthy growth and vibrant foliage. The optimal strategy begins with timing; apply fertilizer during the active growing season, typically in spring and again in mid-summer. A slow-release, balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or an organic alternative, is ideal for providing essential nutrients without risking over-fertilization.

Before application, ensure the soil is moist to prevent root burn. Spread the fertilizer evenly around the base of the plant, extending to the drip line to reach feeder roots. Alternatively, a diluted liquid fertilizer can be used every 4-6 weeks during the growing season for a quicker nutrient boost. Monitor the plant for signs of nutrient deficiency, such as yellowing leaves, and adjust your fertilization regimen accordingly. Always follow label instructions for amounts to avoid nutrient overload, which can harm the plant and surrounding environment.

Varieties

Common Varieties of Pittosporum

Pittosporum is a diverse genus of flowering plants belonging to the family Pittosporaceae. These evergreen shrubs and small trees are favored in gardens for their glossy foliage and fragrant flowers. Below are some of the common varieties of Pittosporum that amateur gardeners and hobbyists might encounter:

1. Pittosporum tenuifolium (Kōhuhu)

   • Description: This variety is native to New Zealand and is known for its narrow leaves and attractive dark green coloration. It can reach heights of up to 10 feet or more and features aromatic, cup-shaped flowers that bloom in spring.
   • Uses: Often used as a hedging plant or specimen tree in gardens.

2. Pittosporum tobira (Japanese Pittosporum)

   • Description: Popular for its dense, glossy foliage, this shrub can grow up to 6 feet tall and is known for its fragrant white flowers that appear in late spring to early summer. It has a compact, rounded shape.
   • Uses: Commonly used as a hedge or screening plant, and it performs well in coastal areas due to its salt tolerance.

3. Pittosporum crassifolium (Māori Kāuri)

   • Description: Originating from New Zealand, this variety has thick, leathery leaves and clusters of yellow-green flowers that have a pleasant scent. It typically grows to about 10 feet in height.
   • Uses: Often used in coastal gardens and can tolerate windy conditions well.

4. Pittosporum undulatum (Sweet Pittosporum)

   • Description: This tree can grow up to 30 feet tall and is recognized for its wavy leaf margins. It produces small, fragrant flowers that attract bees and other pollinators.
   • Uses: Frequently utilized for shade and ornamental value in gardens and parks.

5. Pittosporum heterophyllum (Chinese Pittosporum)

   • Description: Known for its variable leaf shapes, this species offers a lush appearance with a more sprawling growth habit. It typically produces small, yellow flowers.
   • Uses: Often chosen for garden borders due to its varied leaf texture and perfume-like fragrance from its blooms.

6. Pittosporum 'Golf Ball'

   • Description: This compact cultivar features rounded, small leaves that give it a neat, ball-like shape. It's particularly popular for smaller gardens or container planting.
   • Uses: Ideal for low-maintenance gardens and as a decorative element in landscape designs.

Conclusion

Each variety of Pittosporum offers distinct characteristics that can suit various gardening needs, from landscaping and hedging to decorative feature plants. Understanding these common types can help amateur gardeners select the right Pittosporum for their specific environment and design preferences. When considering planting, it's important to account for each variety's growth habits and environmental requirements to maximize their potential and beauty in your garden.

Health Benefits

Pittosporum, commonly known as "cheesewood" or "mock orange," is not only appreciated for its ornamental qualities but also has several health and wellness applications. Traditionally, various species of Pittosporum have been utilized in indigenous medicine. For example, the leaves of Pittosporum undulatum, also known as the Australian Cheesewood, have been used by Aboriginal communities for their potential therapeutic properties, including the treatment of wounds and skin irritations due to their antiseptic qualities.

Beyond its medicinal uses, Pittosporum is often incorporated into gardens and landscapes for its air-purifying capabilities. The plant absorbs pollutants and improves indoor and outdoor air quality, contributing to a healthier living environment. Additionally, the essential oils extracted from Pittosporum leaves are sometimes used in aromatherapy, promoting relaxation and stress relief.

While further research is needed to fully validate these health claims, the integration of Pittosporum into local ecosystems fosters biodiversity and enhances overall wellness through improved aesthetics and environmental quality. Ideal for gardeners seeking functional plants, Pittosporum serves not only as an attractive addition to landscapes but also as a potential contributor to well-being.

Fun Facts

Fun Facts About Pittosporum

• Diverse Range: Pittosporum is a genus that includes around 200 species, many of which are native to Australia and New Zealand. They are known for their adaptability to a variety of climates and soil types.

• Fragrant Flowers: Many varieties of Pittosporum produce small, tubular flowers that are often highly fragrant, making them a popular choice for hedges and scent gardens. The flowers typically bloom in spring and can attract bees and other pollinators.

• Varied Foliage: The leaves of Pittosporum can vary significantly in shape and color, ranging from dark green to variegated forms with yellow or cream edges. This diversity makes them visually appealing across different landscapes.

• Rapid Growth: Pittosporum species, especially Pittosporum tobira (also known as Japanese mock orange), are known for their fast growth rate, which can make them ideal for quickly establishing privacy hedges or windbreaks.

• Tolerant of Pruning: These plants respond well to pruning, allowing gardeners to shape them as desired, whether as formal topiaries or informal hedges. Regular pruning also promotes denser foliage and healthier growth.