Parchment bark
Pittosporum spp.
Also known as
Kohuhu
Pittosporum Tobira JPG0 by Jean-Pol GRANDMONT (CC BY 3.0)
Full Sun
Easy care
Moderate watering
Tender
8a-10b
USDA zone
-12°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
---|---|---|
15m | Max | 7m |
2m | Min | 2m |
Flowering
spring
summer
autumn
winter
This plant has a mild fragrance


More images of Parchment bark
Parchment bark Overview
Pittosporum is a large group of evergreen shrubs and trees that are characterised by simple, leathery, often wavy leaves and small, sometimes fragrant, 5-petalled flowers. These are followed by spherical, usually orange or brown woody berries or capsules. When split open, these reveal seeds covered in dark, sticky pulp. Several species of pittosporum are grown as garden shrubs or small trees for their attractive foliage, with a number of varieties and cultivars available. Many have variegated - often shiny - leaves, and contrasting juvenile and adult leaf colour, which is intensified by full sun. Originally from Australasia, Oceania, East Asia and Africa, Pittosporums need to be kept sheltered from cold, drying winds and prefer a west or south facing aspect. They are suitable for borders, hedges and windbreaks in coastal areas. The roots of less hardy varieties can be protected in winter by providing a thick mulch.
Common problems with Parchment bark
How to propagate Parchment bark
Cuttings
Seed
Layering
Budding
Propagate P.dallii by budding in summer, other species by seed in autumn or spring.
Special features of Parchment bark
Hedge plant
Attractive fruits
Attractive leaves
Autumn colour
Winter colour
Attractive flowers
Pioneer
Wet sites
Other uses of Parchment bark
Grown for their ornamental foliage and flowers with fragrance. Suitable for coastal conditions.