Plant Guide

pittosporum-tenuifolium-variegatum

Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Variegatum'

variegated kohuhu, variegated tawhiwhi

Evergreen shrub or small tree with variegated foliage, native to New Zealand. Leaves are flat (as opposed to wavy like the species itself), greyish green with white margins, similar to Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Argenteum Variegatum' but larger and more pointed, to about 5 cm long. Small (to 1 cm wide) dark reddish-black, honey-scented fowers with reflexed petals in spring. Dark grey bark.

Prefers a sunny or semi-shaded position in any, well-draining soil. Tolerates medium frosts and is frost hardy throughout New Zealand. Pittosporum tenuifolium is not as tolerant as Pittosporum crassifolium of coastal conditions and strong winds, but copes reasonably well with dry conditions. Tends to loose its leaves if conditions are too wet.

Ideal as a specimen tree for foliage colour, or as a hedge or screening plant.

Type of plant

Tree - Evergreen Shrub - Evergreen

Size

3-6 m tall, to 3 m wide

Landscape Use

foliage display, hedge

Specifications

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