Pittosporum tenuifolium 'County Park Dwarf' — Bushy

Overview

Pittosporum tenuifolium 'County Park Dwarf' is a bushy shrub in the genus Pittosporum, part of the Pittosporaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Pittosporum tenuifolium 'County Park Dwarf' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include city and courtyard gardens, coastal, cottage and informal garden, hedging and screens and wall side borders.

About

Pittosporum tenuifolium is a small evergreen tree endemic to New Zealand – growing up to 10 m (33 ft) – commonly known as kōhūhū and black matipo, and by other Māori names kohukohu and tawhiwhi. Its small, very dark, reddish-purple flowers generally go unnoticed, and are scented only at night.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Pittosporum

Sunlight: Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type: Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH: Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture: Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
Aspect: East-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure: Sheltered
UK hardiness: H4

Plant details

Pittosporum tenuifolium 'County Park Dwarf' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Shrub
Habit: Bushy
Foliage: Evergreen
Suggested uses: City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Hedging and screens, Wall side borders

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Pittosporum tenuifolium 'County Park Dwarf'

Propagation: Semi-hardwood cuttings in summer
Pest resistance: Glasshouse red spider mite, Aphids, Cushion scale, Pittosporum sucker
Disease resistance: Powdery mildews, Leaf spot, Honey fungus (rarely)

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Pittosporum tenuifolium 'County Park Dwarf'?

Pittosporum tenuifolium 'County Park Dwarf' prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Pittosporum tenuifolium 'County Park Dwarf' need?

Pittosporum tenuifolium 'County Park Dwarf' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to well-drained.

Is Pittosporum tenuifolium 'County Park Dwarf' hardy in the UK?

Pittosporum tenuifolium 'County Park Dwarf' has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.

How do I propagate Pittosporum tenuifolium 'County Park Dwarf'?

Semi-hardwood cuttings in summer.

More in the Pittosporum genus

Browse all Pittosporum →