Japanese Pittosporum

Overview

Pittosporum tobira is a slow-growing, medium-sized, evergreen shrub that grows to a mature size of around 4m high and 2.5m wide. It has a dense growth habit and shiny, leathery leaves that are oval in shape. Small, honey-scented, white flowers - which gradually develop into a yellow colour - are produced in umbels in late spring and early summer. Known also as Japanese Pittosporum or Japanese Mock Orange, Pittosporum tobira likes moist but well-drained soil and full sun, although it can tolerate dappled shade when grown in an outdoor South or West facing border. Not fully hardy, it can be grown under glass in loam-based compost (in full light) under glass or as a patio plant that can be brought indoors in winter. One of its biggest enemies is cold drying winds. It can however, be used as a hedging plant in sheltered positions, and is somewhat drought resistant. Pittosporum tobira likes to be watered regularly and fed once a month when in growth. Water sparingly in winter.