Pittosporum are an evergreen shrub, popularly used for hedges and topiary gardens. The plant is hardy, able to tolerate most conditions, as long as it has protection from frost in colder climates. Pittosporums are available in many varieties, with some growing as tall as 25 feet, while others are dwarfed and suitable for use in small backyards.
The glossy green foliage makes pittosporum a popular choice for little urban gardens and more formal gardens. The fragrant flowers add a hint of color and scent to gardens in the spring. Pruning is a key element in keeping pittosporums under control, as they can quickly become unruly without regular shaping.
The plant is typically hardy, fast-growing and can require regular maintenance once established. Pittosporums provide instant privacy and sound-proofing when used as a hedge.
Can pittosporum be used as a hedge?
Yes, pittosporum can be used as a hedge. It is a small evergreen shrub or tree that is tolerant of pruning, which makes it ideal for hedges. It has a fast growth rate and can reach mature heights of up to 10 feet, although can be easily kept down with regular pruning.
It is an excellent choice for privacy or screening, as the hedge can be shaped and formed to the desired effect. It is also a great choice for smaller gardens, as it does not take up too much space. Pittosporum also has attractive, dark green foliage and may produce a sweet floral fragrance in springtime.
Which pittosporum is for screening?
Pittosporum tenuifolium, also known as the Kohuhu or New Zealand Wheki, is an evergreen shrub that is well-suited for use in screening. This fast-growing and hardy shrub typically grows to between 6 and 12 feet in height, making it an effective and attractive way to create a living privacy fence or windbreak.
In addition to providing a thick hedge for blocking out views, Pittosporum tenuifolium has attractive variegated leaves that can be various shades of green with creamy-white margins. Vibrant clusters of small, highly scented blossoms appear in spring and summer, creating a delightful aroma in the garden.
What is the most hardy pittosporum?
The most hardy Pittosporum is Pittosporum tobira, also known as Bush Gardenia or Japanese Pittosporum. It is an evergreen shrub native to Japan and Eastern Asia, and is tolerant of a wide range of climates and conditions.
It is able to grow in both full sun and partial shade, and is able to tolerate windy, exposed and frosty conditions. The plant itself is dense and bushy, and grows to a height of up to 4 meters and a width of 3 meters, with a rounded crown.
The leaves grow in opposite pairs and are glossy, dark green in colour, and pointed. It blooms clusters of delicately scented white flowers in late spring/early summer and is followed by clusters of small, soft-fleshed yellow berries.
Pittosporum tobira is very low-maintenance and very slow-growing, making it an ideal choice for a low-maintenance garden. The plant is also very versatile, and can be planted as part of a hedge, as a hedge on its own, or as an accent or specimen plant in a garden.
How do you thicken a Pittosporum hedge?
Creating a dense, hedge with Pittosporum requires regular maintenance. Before planting, consider the height and width of your desired hedge and make sure to plant the appropriate varieties to reach your desired size.
Fertilize your Pittosporum hedge with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer twice a year – once in spring, and then again in the fall. This fertilizer should contain high levels of nitrogen to help promote healthy growth.
Once established, pruning is the key to creating a thick hedge. Prune the hedge in late winter or early spring to remove any deadwood and shape the hedge. When pruning, try to create an even slope from the bottom to the top of the hedge.
This will help create a thick hedge as new growth will be evenly distributed.
To help promote new growth, trim the Pittosporum hedge by 1/3 once a year, leaving some of the branches long to help ensure a full, lush appearance. When pruning, use sharp shears to ensure a clean cut and rake up any debris.
By following these steps and providing regular maintenance, your Pittosporum hedge will be thick, bushy and beautiful in no time.
What are the different types of Pittosporum?
Pittosporum, also known as “mock orange” or “Australian laurel,” is a genus of evergreen trees and shrubs found throughout the world. There are more than 200 species of Pittosporum, and they range in size, shape and foliage.
The most common types of Pittosporum are:
1. Pittosporum tobira – Also known as the Japanese Pittosporum, this species is native to Japan, China and Taiwan. It is a fast-growing, dense, evergreen shrub, reaching heights of up to 8 meters (26 feet).
It has glossy, deep green leaves and clusters of fragrant, small white flowers in spring.
2. Pittosporum undulatum – This species is native to Australia, but is widely grown around the world. It is an evergreen tree with wavy margins, oval leaves, and fragrant, creamy-white flowers in spring.
3. Pittosporum viridiflorum – This species is also known as the “variegated mock orange” due to its variegated foliage, which is a combination of green, yellow and grey-green shades. It is a fast-growing, evergreen shrub and has strongly scented flowers.
4. Pittosporum eugenioides – This species is native to New Zealand and grows as a spreading shrub or small tree. Its leaves are grey-green in color, and it has fragrant, white flowers in spring.
5. Pittosporum crassifolium – This species is native to Queensland, Australia and is an upright, evergreen shrub. It has large, leathery, glossy leaves and fragrant, white flowers in summer.
Each of these Pittosporum species will vary in their hardiness, growth rate and requirements. In the right conditions, they can provide a lovely addition to any garden.
Can Pittosporum survive a freeze?
It depends on the type of Pittosporum. Some pittosporums, such as Pittosporum tobira, are cold hardy and can survive temperatures below freezing. Other varieties, such as Pittosporum tenuifolim and Pittosporum eugenioides, may be able to tolerate a brief cold spell, but are not cold hardy enough to withstand an extended freeze.
If temperatures drop below 26°F, these varieties may suffer from frost damage or even die. If you are uncertain about which variety of Pittosporum you have, it is important to choose planting areas that offer some protection from cold air and winds.
You may also want to consider providing artificial protection such as covering the shrub with burlap or a sheet to help keep frosty air away. Planting Pittosporum in containers can also make the shrub more resilient to cold temperatures, as potted plants can be moved to a warmer location during cold spells.
How cold can Pittosporum tolerate?
Pittosporums are an extremely hardy type of evergreen shrub, and are quite tolerant of cold temperatures. They can generally tolerate temperatures as low as -10 to -20 degrees Celsius (-20 to -4 degrees Fahrenheit) without any negative long-term effects.
In USDA and RHS hardiness zones 8, 9 and 10 they will usually thrive without protection in the winter months, and in zones 5, 6 and 7 they can survive with some winter protection such as mulching or providing a temporary wind break.
Pittosporums are very adaptable plants, so if you live in a cool climate then it is worth experimenting to see how cold your particular variety of Pittosporum can tolerate without suffering any damage.
When should you plant Pittosporum?
The best time to plant Pittosporum is during early spring or late fall when the soil temperature is cool and the rainfall is frequent. Pittosporum is known to be cold tolerant, so they may even tolerate a light frost if necessary.
Planting should take place in a well-draining, moist soil that is amended with organic matter. It is best to keep the soil moist but not overly wet. For best results, Pittosporum should be planted in a partly shady spot because too much direct sun may lead to foliage burn and scorched leaves.
It is also wise to give your newly planted Pittosporum a good drink the day after planting.
Can you hard prune a Pittosporum?
Yes, you can hard prune a Pittosporum. Hard pruning for Pittosporums involves cutting back one-third to one-half of the shrub’s canes to the base each year. The pruning should occur in late winter or early spring when the shrub is still dormant.
This will help encourage new growth in the coming season, but since Pittosporums are slow growing, it may take a few years to achieve the desired size and shape. It is important to watch for any new growth that is not in the desired shape and trim it accordingly.
It is also important to keep the shrub well-watered and fertilized during its growing season, helping promote healthy growth and encouraging the desired shape.
How fast does silver sheen pittosporum grow?
Silver sheen pittosporum is a hardy, evergreen shrub that is native to Australia. Its average growth rate is approximately 8 to 10 inches per year and up to as much as 24 inches in a single growing season.
It can take between 5 to 10 years for the shrub to reach its mature size, which typically ranges from 10-15 feet tall and 5-8 feet wide. To encourage the shrub to reach its maximal growth potential, a soil with pH of 6.5-7.
5 should be used and the soil should be kept damp, but not soggy, throughout the growing season. Pruning can also help to manage the size of the shrub and promote a bushier, fuller look.
How close to a fence can you plant pittosporum?
Depending on the variety of Pittosporum you have, it may be able to be planted very close to a fence. Some varieties, like Pittosporum tenuifolium, can tolerate close pruning and can be planted right up against the fence, offering an impressive privacy screen.
Other larger, rapidly-growing varieties, such as Pittosporum tobira, may need to be planted further away from a fence as they can eventually reach heights of up to 8 feet and spread out 5-10 feet from the base.
When planting Pittosporum near a fence, first ensure that it is well- draining soil, as Pittosporums prefer drier soil. It may also be beneficial to add a slow-release fertilizer around the edges of the fence line to help feed the plant and encourage growth.
Doing so will help ensure the health of the Pittosporum and enable it to look its best!.
Do pittosporum have deep roots?
Yes, pittosporum do have deep roots. The root systems of pittosporum trees and shrubs are highly developed and complex. Depending on the species, the roots may grow to a depth of 3 to 10 feet and can form a dense, interconnected network of lateral roots.
The root system is important for providing the tree with stability, moisture, and nutrition, allowing it to develop and thrive.
The fibrous and woody root structure of the pittosporum is also adapted to withstand strong winds and wet soils. This allows them to be an excellent choice for windbreaks, landscapes, and even hedges, providing a welcome swathe of greenery and texture to any garden.
Is pittosporum a perennial?
Yes, Pittosporum is a perennial plant. It is a genus of evergreen, flowering shrubs and small trees, which are native to the old world. There are around 200 species of pittosporum, with some growing up to 40 feet tall.
The plant produces highly fragrant, bell-shaped flowers in spring and summer, on short clusters of stalked fruits. Leaves are usually oval in shape and can range in color from bright green to dark green, as well as grey, bronze and even variegated.
Pittosporum is a popular ornamental plant, commonly used in shrub borders and mixed hedges. It’s also valued for its adaptability, versatility, and ease of maintenance in home gardens.
Are roots of pittosporum invasive?
No, roots of pittosporum are not generally considered to be invasive. Pittosporum (Pittosporum tobira) is commonly known as Japanese pittosporum and considered invasive in some areas of the US, such as California, Hawaii, and parts of the South.
It is an evergreen shrub that grows up to 12 feet tall in some climates, although it usually stays at 6-8 feet tall. The root system is generally not considered invasive, though it can spread by seed and could potentially overtake other plants in the same environment.
It is important to remember that planting this species in an area where it is not normally found can be considered invasive, as it can easily out-compete native species. It is best to plant pittosporum in well-drained soil, out of direct sun, and prune regularly to prevent it from spreading in the garden.
Is pittosporum a shallow rooted?
Pittosporum is generally considered to be shallow rooted, with most of the root system being within the top 6-8 inches of soil. It will establish a shallow root system quickly and should be protected from wind and water erosion.
With proper watering and mulching, the root system can become deeper and further spread out. Pruning should also be done with caution to prevent too much removal of roots and shock to the plant. Pittosporum can be grown successfully in both pots and in the ground and, like many plants, appreciate the protection of a microclimate and good drainage.
Which trees should not be planted near houses?
There are certain types of trees that should not be planted near houses. In general, small trees that reach heights of less than 30 feet are best suited for planting near houses. These include trees like Dogwood, Japanese Maple and Redbud, as they have shallow root systems that won’t damage driveways, sidewalks and foundations.
Trees with wide canopies, such as mature oak and maple trees, should be kept at least 20 feet away from houses, since they can drop large limbs, which can damage a house or injure people nearby. Fast-growing trees with shallow root systems, like the silver maple and poplar, should also be avoided.
Finally, avoid planting fruit trees near houses, as the disease and pests associated with them can spread to other nearby trees and plants.
How long do Pittosporum trees live?
Pittosporum trees are quite hardy and can live for several decades if properly cared for. In an ideal environment without pests, disease, or weather damage, a Pittosporum tree may live for up to 50 years.
However, in more stressful climates, their life spans may be considerably shorter. In general, the smaller varieties of Pittosporum are more likely to have longer lifespans than the taller varieties, which tend to experience more stress and damage from the elements.
Proper care, such as regular pruning, adequate irrigation and fertilization, and protection from harsh weather, can help extend the life of a Pittosporum tree. Proper spacing of the trees can also help reduce stress and promote healthier growth.
How far back can you cut Pittosporum?
You can cut Pittosporum back quite far. It is very resilient and can tolerate severe pruning. Its ability to rejuvenate and grow into dense foliage makes it suitable for shearing and topiary. In general, you can cut back Pittosporum as much as 1/3 of its overall height.
Depending on how aggressive you would like to be, you can even cut it back to ground level. Regular moderate pruning will help it to maintain a more upright and columnar shape, and will also help to reduce the need for more severe pruning down the line.
Prune Pittosporum in late winter or early spring, before the foliage has started to bud, in order to minimize leaf drop. Always use sharp pruning shears to ensure clean cuts and to prevent disease.
Is Japanese Pittosporum invasive?
Japanese Pittosporum (Pittosporum tobira) is generally considered an invasive species in many parts of the world, including the United States. The plant was introduced to the US in the late 1800s as an ornamental.
Since its introduction, it has spread aggressively to form dense stands in coastal areas and near parks and roadsides. It typically invades disturbed areas, like roadsides, and effects natural habitats by out-competing native vegetation.
Japanese Pittosporum is an evergreen shrub that can grow up to 15 feet tall, with dark green, glossy leaves. The plant is known for its fragrant white flowers and black, roundish fruits. It reproduces easily and rapidly, making it a problem in areas with mild winter climates.
In the US, Japanese Pittosporum is listed on the US Fish & Wildlife’s Federal Noxious Weed List, and is subject to control and eradication efforts in states where it is considered invasive. As such, efforts are being made to remove Japanese Pittosporum and replace it with native plants in order to prevent further spread of this plant and preserve native habitats.