Another useful species, Pittosporum crassifolium is a shrub to small tree growing from to 4 – 7 m in height depending on soil and climate, Commonly known as the ‘Karo’ it is from the North Island of New Zealand and has proved to be a hardy street tree. Easily pruned to size it is also suited for use as a hedging plant or screen.
A fast growing evergreen shrub it has been used as a street tree. Foliage is rounded with fine hairs. Spring to summer flowering with small deep red flowers held close to the foliage. Pittosporum crassifolium grows well in a range of climates and is planted from Sydney to Melbourne. Excellent tree for interplanting with other species in roadside landscaping. Works well with Tristaniopsis laurina and Callistemons
Pittosporum crassifolium Care
This is a tough shrub that copes well with poor soils and coastal conditions. Rounded leathery leaves that are scented, red flowers are an added attraction. A dense growing plant that takes well to pruning. Requires good drainage.
Varieties
All species and cultivars used as low growing hedging plants to small trees.
- Pittosporum crassifolium ‘Nana’ – this is a smaller growing variety useful for hedging in seaside areas. Also known as Pittosporum crassifolium ‘Compactum’ – Not widely available,
- Pittosporum crassifolium variegatum – Attractive variegated foliage.
