Pittosporum angustifolium
Pittosporum angustifolium · Pittosporaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around pittosporum angustifolium and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Flowering
- Spring to early summer (April-June)
- Flower color
- Cream white, fragrant
- Mature size
- 1.5 to 3 m in height
- Growth rate
- Moderate
- Hardiness
- Low hardiness (-5°C max)
- Origin
- Australia
- Soil type
- Well-drained, light to medium
Care
Light
Pittosporum angustifolium prefers a sunny to partially shaded location. Position it in a sheltered spot away from dominant winds, as the fine foliage can be damaged by strong gusts. A south or west-facing exposure works particularly well in temperate regions.
Watering
Water regularly during the growing season (spring-summer), keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. In autumn-winter, reduce watering significantly. Avoid waterlogging, which can cause root rot.
Soil
Prepare well-drained potting mix, preferably made from quality potting soil enriched with sand or perlite. Pittosporum hates standing water; good drainage is essential for its long-term survival.
Pruning and shaping
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a compact shape and encourage branching. Remove dead or damaged wood in early spring. Gentle pruning is usually sufficient; this species develops naturally in a harmonious form.
Fertilizer
Apply balanced fertilizer in spring and early summer, approximately once a month. Prefer a low-concentration formula rather than heavy feeding. Excess nitrogen promotes foliage at the expense of flowering.
Diseases and pests
Watch for scale insects and spider mites, especially in hot, dry climates. Excessive watering can cause rot. Ensure good air circulation around the foliage to prevent fungal diseases.
Did you know?
Pittosporum angustifolium, known as Narrow-leaved Pittosporum, is traditionally used in Australia for its ornamental qualities and the delicate fragrance that emanates from its small spring flowers. Its genus name "Pittosporum" comes from the Greek and means "pitch seed," referring to the seeds covered in a sticky, viscous substance characteristic of the family.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- PittosporumPittosporum tobira
- TawhiwhiPittosporum tenuifolium
- Chinese PittosporumPittosporum heterophyllum
- Bursaria spinosaBursaria spinosa
- Billardiera scandensBillardiera scandens
- BasilOcimum basilicum
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.