Pittosporum tobira (Japanese mock orange) — Bushy

Overview

Pittosporum tobira is a bushy houseplants in the genus Pittosporum, part of the Pittosporaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 2.5-4 metres tall and 1.5-2.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 10-20 years. Pittosporum tobira grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. It is drought resistant and low maintenance.

About

Pittosporum tobira is a species of sweet-smelling flowering plant in the pittosporum family Pittosporaceae known by several common names, including Australian laurel, Japanese pittosporum, mock orange and Japanese cheesewood. It is native to Japan (south of Kanto), China, Taiwan, and Korea, but it is used throughout the world as an ornamental plant in landscaping and as cut foliage. It grows to around 2.5-4 metres tall and 1.5-2.5 metres wide, carrying evergreen foliage. Grow it in full sun and partial shade and most soil types. It tolerates soil of any pH, moist but well-drained, well-drained conditions and west-facing and south-facing aspects.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Pittosporum tobira

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Pittosporum

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

Plant details

Pittosporum tobira size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Houseplants, Shrubs
Habit: Bushy
Foliage: Evergreen
Height: 2.5-4 metres
Spread: 1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height: 10-20 years

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Pittosporum tobira?

Pittosporum tobira prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Pittosporum tobira need?

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