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Pittosporum tobira (Pittosporum, Variegated)

Pittosporum, Variegated

Pittosporum tobira 'Variegata'

Discontinued

A popular broadleaf evergreen shrub native to China and Japan, Pittosporum is a broadleaf evergreen shrub that gets very tall and open in full sun, or remains compact and full in the shade. Normally growing as tall as it gets wide, Pittosporum forms an upright round head, looking dense thanks to the leaves being whorled around the branches with a slight recurve. They are leathery to the touch, and glossy on the top while dull on underside. ‘Variegata’ is a variegated cultivar with grey-green leaves with cream colored margins. It’s not uncommon for some variegated Pittosporums to revert back to their green leaves; simply trim off those branches.

Small fragrant white flowers are only half an inch in diameter and appear early in the spring, then slowly turn yellow as they progress into the summer.  They are followed by stiff small fruits in the late summer, not overly noticeable against the foliage.

Pittosporum appreciates well drained soil, and regular watering and fertilization promotes thick, even growth. In a drought, the plant grows more loose and open, almost ragged, but recovers quickly when the water returns. 

Screen
Hedge
Small Accent Tree

Flower Color:

White then Yellow

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Height

8-10 Feet

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Spread

10-15 Feet


USDA Hardiness Zone 8a

Characteristics & Attributes

Deer Tolerance
• Medium
Exposure
• Full Sun to Part Shade
Habit
• Evergreen
Water Needs
• Low