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Home » How to » Grow Plants » How to Grow Pittosporum Tenuifolium
Pittosporum tenuifolium, commonly known as Kohuhu, is an evergreen shrub native to New Zealand, cherished for its versatile and ornamental qualities. Its lush foliage and variety of forms make it a favorite in gardens and landscapes. In this guide, we delve into the intricacies of growing and caring for this beautiful plant, ensuring it thrives in your garden.
Key Takeaways
- Ideal conditions for Pittosporum tenuifolium: Full sun or partial shade, well-drained soil.
- Best planting times: Spring and autumn.
- Watering needs: Regular during the first growing season, then as needed.
- Propagation methods: Cuttings, seeds, and layering.
- Pruning: Light pruning in late spring for shape and health.
How to Grow Pittosporum tenuifolium
Growing Pittosporum tenuifolium successfully starts with understanding its basic needs. This plant thrives in full sun or partial shade and prefers well-drained soil. It’s adaptable to a range of soil types, from clay to loam, provided they are not waterlogged.
Optimal Growing Conditions
- Light: Full sun to partial shade.
- Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil.
- Climate: Hardy in most areas, but requires protection from strong winds.
Where to Grow Pittosporum tenuifolium
Pittosporum tenuifolium can be planted in various garden locations, from borders to pots. Its versatility allows it to fit into different garden styles, including formal and woodland gardens.
Garden Placement
- Borders: Ideal for creating a lush backdrop.
- Pots: Suitable for smaller cultivars.
- Hedges: Perfect for creating privacy screens.
How to Plant Pittosporum tenuifolium
Planting Pittosporum tenuifolium involves several steps to ensure a healthy start. The best planting seasons are spring and autumn, to give the plant time to establish itself.
Planting Steps
- Soil Preparation: Incorporate organic matter into the soil.
- Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as the root ball.
- Spacing: Allow sufficient space between plants for growth.
Caring for Pittosporum tenuifolium
Caring for Pittosporum tenuifolium is relatively straightforward. The plant requires regular watering during its first growing season. Once established, it becomes more drought-tolerant.
Watering
- First Year: Regular watering during dry spells.
- Established Plants: Water as needed, especially during prolonged dry periods.
Feeding
- Soil Type: Fertilize if the soil is poor or the plant is struggling.
- Fertilizer Type: Use a general-purpose fertilizer in spring.
Mulching
- Purpose: Helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
- Material: Use organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure.
Pruning Pittosporum tenuifolium
Pruning is essential for maintaining the shape and health of Pittosporum tenuifolium. The best time for pruning is late spring.
Pruning Steps:
- Shape: Lightly prune to maintain the desired shape.
- Health: Remove any dead or damaged branches.
Pruning Tools
- Pruners: For small branches and fine tuning.
- Loppers: For thicker branches.
- Pruning Saw: For large or tough branches.
How to Propagate Pittosporum tenuifolium
Propagation of Pittosporum tenuifolium can be achieved through various methods, allowing gardeners to multiply their plants effectively.
Propagation Methods
- Cuttings: Semi-ripe cuttings taken in mid to late summer.
- Seeds: Sow seeds in spring in a sheltered spot.
- Layering: Rooting stems while still attached to the parent plant.
Growing Pittosporum tenuifolium: Problem Solving
Growing Pittosporum tenuifolium is generally straightforward, but like any plant, it can face some issues. Common problems include pest infestations and diseases.
Common Issues and Solutions
- Pests: Aphids can occasionally be a problem. Use appropriate organic or chemical controls as needed.
- Diseases: Generally disease-resistant, but watch out for root rot in poorly drained soils.
Winter Care
In cooler regions, Pittosporum tenuifolium may require some winter protection.
- Mulching: Apply dry mulch around the base to protect from frost.
- Container Plants: Move containers to a sheltered location during severe winter weather.
Varieties of Pittosporum tenuifolium to Grow
Pittosporum tenuifolium comes in a range of varieties, each with unique characteristics.
Popular Varieties
- ‘Tom Thumb’: Compact, with bronze-purple leaves.
- ‘Golf Ball’: Lime-green foliage, low maintenance, and dome-shaped.
- ‘Irene Patterson’: White streaked green foliage.
Variety | Height & Spread | Leaf Color | Flower Significance |
Tom Thumb | 1.2m x 80cm | Bronze/Purple | Insignificant |
Golf Ball | 1.2m x 1.2m | Lime Green | Insignificant |
Irene Patterson | 1.6m x 1.6m | Green/White | Insignificant |
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Advanced Care Tips for Pittosporum tenuifolium
To ensure your Pittosporum tenuifolium thrives, it’s important to understand some advanced care techniques.
Detailed Pruning Guide
Pruning is more than just maintaining the shape; it’s about encouraging healthy growth.
- Best Time to Prune: Late spring, after the last frost.
- Pruning Techniques: Thin out overcrowded branches and remove any dead or diseased wood.
Soil and Fertilization
Proper soil management and fertilization are key to the health of your Pittosporum tenuifolium.
- Soil Testing: Test your soil every few years to check for nutrient levels and pH balance.
- Fertilization Schedule: Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
Common Pests and Diseases
Understanding the pests and diseases that can affect your plant is crucial for early detection and treatment.
Pest Management
- Aphids: Small, sap-sucking insects that can cause damage to leaves.
- Management: Use organic or chemical insecticides as necessary.
Disease Prevention
- Root Rot: Caused by overly wet soil conditions.
- Prevention: Ensure good drainage in the soil to prevent waterlogging.
Winter Protection Strategies
In colder regions, extra care is needed to protect your Pittosporum tenuifolium during winter.
- Mulching: Apply a thick layer of mulch around the base to insulate roots.
- Container Plants: Move potted plants to a sheltered area to prevent frost damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions gardeners have about Pittosporum tenuifolium.
Yes, it can tolerate partial shade but prefers full sun for optimal growth.
Water regularly during the first growing season; afterwards, water as needed, especially in dry conditions.
Yes, it is generally deer-resistant, but hungry deer might nibble on younger leaves.
Advanced Growing Techniques
- Topiary: Pittosporum tenuifolium can be shaped into topiary forms with regular pruning.
- Hedging: Perfect for creating dense, evergreen hedges.
Additional Insights for Gardeners
Expanding your knowledge about Pittosporum tenuifolium can lead to healthier plants and more vibrant gardens.
Garden Design Tips
- Combining with Other Plants: Pair with plants that have contrasting foliage or flowering times for a dynamic garden display.
- Color Schemes: Use the variegated varieties of Pittosporum tenuifolium to add visual interest to your garden.

Eleanor is the quintessential spirit of the British gardener — passionate, dedicated, and endlessly curious about the natural world. Born and raised amidst the verdant landscapes of the Cotswolds, she developed an early love for the outdoors, often spending hours in the family garden with her hands buried in the soil, nurturing every type of plant she could find.