About
Pittosporum truncatum is an evergreen shrub or small tree producing the characteristic leathery foliage and small, fragrant flowers of the genus. A rewarding ornamental for a sheltered, sunny garden.
About the genus
Pittosporum are evergreen shrubs or trees with simple, leathery leaves and small, often fragrant, five-petalled flowers, followed by rounded, woody, splitting fruits revealing seeds in sticky pulp. Popular ornamental plants for mild gardens.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeHouseplants, Shrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesMediterranean climate plants
Native toFar East
FragranceFlower
Care notes
CultivationGrow outdoors in moist but well-drained soil in full sun. Protect from cold drying winds. Grow under glass in peat-free, loam-based compost in full light
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by seed or semi-hardwood cuttings
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to glasshouse red spider mite, aphids, cushion scale and pittosporum sucker
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews, leafspot and honey fungus (rarely)