Pittosporum tobira Variegatum - Japanese Pittosporum

Pittosporum tobira Variegatum is a compact, highly floriferous bush with evergreen foliage, thickly and irregularly marginate with white and bearing clusters of fragrant, bell-shaped flowers with an orange scent. It is used as an evergreen hedge by the seaside, as its foliage is resistant to sea spray.

Originally from Japan, Pittosporum tobira forms a dense shrub of 4 to 5 meters (13 to 16 feet) in height. It is hardy up to -10°C (14°F). It has evergreen, alternate, entire, ovate, thick, shiny leaves that are 5 cm (2in) long and a dark green colour. The bell-shaped flowers are white or yellowish-green, highly fragrant, and have a diameter of 3 cm (1in). They appear in clusters on the foliage in May.

Pittosporum tobira has slow growth and requires a fertile, dry, not too chalky, well-drained soil, in a warm, sunny position, protected from prevailing winds. It is preferable to cultivate it in a pot when the winter climate is too cold. Pruning can be done in spring, before new growth appears, to maintain a harmonious habit and remove dead or diseased wood. It can tolerate severe pruning if necessary.

Pittosporum tobira can be planted in groups, as topiary, coastal hedges, associated with Oleanders, Callistemons, Cassias, and Myrtles, or in pots on a terrace to enjoy its delicate scent. The pot can be brought indoors to a veranda or a greenhouse with a winter temperature not exceeding 7 to 10°C (44.6 to 50°F).

Tip: Every year, provide good organic fertilizer for better flowering. In pots, pruning is almost unnecessary.