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Pittosporum eugenioides (Tarata) - An evergreen upright shrub or small tree that typically grows to 25 feet tall (to nearly 40 feet in habitat) and 15 feet wide with glossy light to medium green 2- to 4-inch-long lanceolate leaves that have wavy margins and pale midribs. Clusters of honey scented yellow flowers are on a branched inflorescence in spring.
Plant in full coastal sun to light shade inland - does not do well in full sun inland and even in Southern California does best when planted in part sun. Irrigate regularly to occasionally. Hardy to around 20°F. A good tall screening plant, particularly in cooler areas such as the bay area.
This tree is native to both the North Island and South Island of New Zealand where it grows from sea level up to 2,500 feet in elevation. The name Pittosporum comes from the Greek words 'pitta' meaning "pitch" and 'spora' meaning "seed" in reference to the sticky seeds of many members of the genus and the specific epithet means "resembling Eugenia". Another common name is Lemonwood. We grew this plant from 1982 until 2002.
The information displayed on this page about Pittosporum eugenioides is based on our research conducted about this plant from books in our nursery library as well as from information that is provided by reliable online resources. We also have included our own observations made about it as it grew in the nursery gardens and other gardens visited, as well how the crops of this plant performed in the containers when we had them in our nursery field. We also include comments received from others and welcome hearing from anyone who has information about this plant, particularly if it includes cultural information aiding others to better grow it.
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