Pittosporum tenuifolium is a native to New Zealand and a highly hybridised species. In its natural habitat it will reach around 8 – 10m in height. It is a plant that easily pruned to size and this gives it the characteristics that make it suited for use as a hedging plant or screen.
With dozens of cultivars available varieties can be found that will be low growing, from 1m in height, to tall at around 8 – 10m. Foliage and stem colour also differs as does the size and shape of the leaf.
Growing well in full sun to part shade some cultivars also make a good container plant.
Widely used as a screening tree or hedging plant. Look for the dwarf forms of Pittosporum Tenuifolium such as ‘Tom Thumb’ which will only reach 1m or so, interesting in a container. ‘Golf Ball’ is another dwarf cultivar
Pittosporum Tenuifolium Care
All cultivars require similar conditions and a well drained soil is essential, heavy clay soils may require some remedial work to improve drainage, in very sandy soils dig in some coir peat, well rotted compost and manure before planting to improve water retention. A slow release fertiliser twice a year is usually adequate.
Pittosporum tenuifoliam species and cultivars are better suited to cool and temperate climates than tropical areas. Prune regularly when young to create a dense growth.
Varieties
- Green Pillar 3-4m
- Silver Sheen 4-5m
- Golden Sheen 3m
- Golf Ball 1m
- Silver Song 4-5m
- Sunburst
- Screen Master
- Stirling Mist
and many others.
Pittosporum tenuifolium are available for sale from the following participating suppliers
55 McDougal Rd Neerim South Victoria 3831 PH: (03) 56281507
Advanced ornamental trees and garden designs and concept plans. Direct to your property combined with specialist knowledge and outstanding service.
www.blericktreefarm.com.au