Pittosporum illicioides var. angustifolia

Pittosporum illcioides var. angustifolia is an attractive small evergreen shrub from Asia. Remarkable and rare, it bears long, slender, flexible stems with silky, dark green, very long and narrow leaves. In May-June, pale yellow, fragrant flowers appear, carried on long panicles, followed by small spherical fruits. Not very hardy, it appreciates a shady and sheltered position, as well as a rich, moist to wet, well-drained soil. The graceful evergreen foliage and airy habit of this Pittosporum will bring an exotic touch and lightness to shady borders.

Pittosporum illicioides var. angustifolia is an elegant shrub native to the mountain forests of China, Japan and Taiwan, belonging to the Pittosporaceae family. It forms an airy bush, with long, flexible, arching stems, reaching 2 to 3 m (7 to 10ft) in height. It has dark green evergreen foliage, slightly leathery and shiny, composed of smooth, lanceolate, very slender and long leaves, 2 cm (1in) wide and up to 20 cm (8in) long. In May-June, small, fragrant, pale yellow tubular flowers open on long, slender stems, followed by fruits in the form of capsules containing the seeds.

With its small size and graceful foliage, this Pittosporum brings an airy touch and texture to borders. It appreciates partly shaded to shaded areas, where its foliage will be longer than in sunny locations. It can be planted in a border with other shrubs or perennial plants that require the same growing conditions. It will be perfectly paired with Ceanothus, Loropetalum or Holly-leaved Osmanthus for example; but also with yellow or blue flowering perennials such as Asters, Meadow Rues, Salvias, Hardy Geraniums, Speedwells or Spurges.