ShrubsPittosporum tobira
Japanese Pittosporum
Japanese pittosporum is an evergreen shrub with dense, leathery dark green foliage and creamy-white, intensely fragrant flowers appearing in May and June. The scent is reminiscent of orange blossom. Supremely suited as a hedging plant or specimen in mild climates.
Characteristics
- Sun
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Water
- Medium
- Height
- 200–400 cm
- Spread
- 200–400 cm
- Hardiness zone
- 8–11
- Family
- Pittosporaceae
- Evergreen
- Yes
- Flower colors
- white
- Wildlife value
- bees
Bloom period
Care guide
Plant in full sun to partial shade in well-drained soil. Protect from cold east winds in cooler regions. Water regularly in the first year and during dry periods thereafter. Feed in spring with a slow-release fertiliser.
Pruning tips
Prune after flowering to maintain shape. The shrub responds well to hard pruning and can be used as a topiary subject. Remove any frost damage in early spring.
Good companions
ShrubsBuxus sempervirens
Boxwood
Boxwood is an evergreen shrub with small, glossy dark green leaves that is ideal for topiary and hedging. The plant grows slowly and can live for hundreds of years. Small green-yellow flowers appear in April and May, attracting early bees.
ShrubsLavandula angustifolia
English Lavender
Lavender is a beloved herb with aromatic silver-green foliage and purple-blue flower spikes. This evergreen plant blooms profusely from June to August and is remarkably drought-tolerant, attracting butterflies and bees to the garden.
ShrubsPhotinia x fraseri
Red Robin
Red Robin is a popular evergreen hedging plant that dazzles in spring with bright red young foliage. White flower clusters appear in April and May, followed by small red berries. The plant grows quickly and forms a dense, opaque hedge.