Plant Guide

Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Silver Sheen'

Cultivar of the New Zealand native Pittosporum tenuifolium (kohuhu) with dainty foliage and black branches. Fast growing evergreen shrub or small tree. Tiny leaves with a silvery-grey sheen, round initially and gradually becoming oval in shape.

Prefers a position in full sun. Growth is a bit more open in partial shade. Grows well in any well-drained soil other than heavy clay. Reasonably drought tolerant. Avoid wet sites. Frost-hardy throughout New Zealand, and in general tolerates moderate frosts. Fertilise with general purpose fertiliser in spring and autumn. Responds well to trimming.

Attractive plant with delicate foliage and lovely colour contrasts of silver leaves and black branches. Great choice for hedging purposes. If you wish to grow Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Silver Sheen' as a specimen, plant it where you can see the leaves shimmer in the sun. Cut branchlets are suitable for floral art.

Type of plant

Tree - Evergreen Shrub - Evergreen

Size

3-6 m tall, 1.5-3 m wide, but can be kept smaller with trimming

Landscape Use

specimen for foliage colour, cut-foliage, hedge

Specifications

  • Temperature: Half hardy
  • Light: Medium High
  • Moisture: Low Medium
  • Soil: Light Medium
  • Wind tolerance: Average
  • Coastal tolerance: Average