|
|
|
 |
|
|
| Category: Shrub |
| Family: Pittosporaceae (Pittosporums) |
| Origin: New Zealand (Australasia) |
| Evergreen: Yes |
| Flower Color: Purple |
| Bloomtime: Spring |
| Synonyms: [Pittosporum nigricans] |
| Height: 15-25 feet |
| Width: 10-15 feet |
| Exposure: Sun or Shade |
| Seaside: Yes |
| Irrigation (H2O Info): Medium Water Needs |
| Winter Hardiness: 15-20° F |
| May be Poisonous (More Info): Yes |
|
|
|
|
Pittosporum tenuifolium (Kohuhu) - A fast growing dense evergreen upright shrub or small tree that grows to 20 to 30 feet tall. It has glossy medium green oval slightly undulating leaves that are held on dark, nearly black, new stems and dark fragrant purple flowers held in small clusters in the spring that are followed by small orange fruit. Plant in full coastal sun or part shade, with occasional watering. Seaside tolerant. Hardy to 15-20 ° F. This plant is native to both islands of New Zealand where it is common in the lower mountain forests from sea level up to nearly 3,000 feet. 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. The specific epithet tenuifolia is from the Latin words 'tenu' meaning "slender" and 'foli' meaning "leaves" in reference to the more slender leaves of this species. This plant was first introduced in San Francisco (as P. nigra) by sea captain James Walsh (spelled in some sources as Welsh or Welch), who returned from a trip to Australia and New Zealand (and possibly Japan) in 1865 with many plants that have been in cultivation in California ever since.
This information about Pittosporum tenuifolium displayed is based on research conducted in our library and from reliable online resources. We will also note observations that we have made about it as it grows in the gardens in our nursery and those elsewhere, as well how the crops have performed in containers in our nursery field. We will also incorporate comments we receive from others, and we welcome hearing from anyone with additional information, particularly if they can share cultural information that would aid others in growing it.
|
| |
|
|
|
