Pittosporum tenuifolium Tom Thumb - Kohuhu

Pittosporum tenuifolium Thom Thumb is a beautiful, sturdy shrub that is slightly sensitive to cold, and originates from New Zealand. It stands out for its very dense, beautiful evergreen foliage. Its small, tough and undulate leaves have a dark, intense bronzy-purple hue with metallic reflections. In May-June, during warm nights, its small dark red flowers release an intense scent of honey and vanilla. This plant has the charm of plants from distant arid lands. It is perfectly adapted to the Mediterranean climate and will thrive in sunny positions with well-drained soil.

This shrub, part of the Pittosporaceae family, originates from dry regions located to the east of the New Zealand Alps.  Over time, it forms a dense and sturdy bush, 50 to 80 cm (20 to 32in) tall, with a spread of 1 m (3ft). Its black and branching stems hold evergreen, alternate, entire, ovate, thick, very glossy, tough, undulate leaves. They are small, not exceeding 3 to 4 cm (1 to 2in) in length and 1.5 to 2 cm (1in) in width. They emerge as an almond green shade, then turn bronze, purple and chocolate, glazed with a magnificent silver reflection.  Flowering takes place in late spring or early summer. The small cup-shaped flowers, almost black in colour and less than 1 cm (1in) in diameter, release a scent that is especially noticeable at night. They are followed by the formation of a few round fruits, initially green and then almost black when mature.

Hardy down to -7C°/-10°C, Pittosporum Thom Thumb requires a dry, not too chalky, well-drained soil and a warm, sunny position protected from prevailing winds. It is recommended to grow it in a pot in regions where the winter is very cold. In mild climates, it can be planted in rockeries or at the edge of flower beds. In colder regions, it can be grown in a container on a terrace to enjoy its delicate scent and Mediterranean charm. Accompany it with perennial geraniums, lavender, rosemary, Grevillea, Escallonia, or combine it with the silver foliage of Artemisia.