Pittosporum tobira
Japanese Pittosporum
Description
This dense evergreen shrub reaches 2-5' tall and wide. It has shiny, dark green, leathery leaves. In the spring, clusters of small, cream-colored flowers appear with the fragrance of orange blossoms, then turning yellow. This shrub tolerates full or part sun with well-draining soil. Very easy to grow. Prune to get desired shape; it can be pruned back to the old wood if needed. This shrub tolerates seaside conditions as well as heat. Many cultivars available.
Plant Type
Shrub
Height Range
1-3', 3-6'
Width Range
6-12'
Flower Color
Yellow, White
Flower Season
Spring
Leaf Color
Dark Green
Bark Color
n/a
Fruit Color
Brown, Green
Fruit Season
Summer, Fall
Sun
Full, Half
Water
Medium
Growth Rate
Moderate
Soil Type
Unparticular
Soil Condition
Average, Well-drained
Soil pH
Neutral, Basic
Adverse Factors
n/a
Design Styles
Japanese, Meadow, Mediterranean, Ranch, Seascape, Woodland
Accenting Features
Fragrance, Standard
Seasonal Interest
Spring
Location Uses
Background, Shrub Border, Foundation, Park, Parking Lot, Raised Planter, Swimming Pool, Walls / Fences, Walkways
Special Uses
Container, Cut Flowers, Hedge, Screen, Mass Planting
Attracts Wildlife
n/a
Water Saving Tip:
Mulching and adding compost to soil can minimize evaporation and help soil absorb and store water.