How to Grow Pittosporum tobira
Pittosporum tobira
Pittosporum tobira is a handsome evergreen shrub with glossy dark green leaves and clusters of sweetly fragrant, creamy-white flowers in late spring. It thrives in full sun or partial shade and is particularly well suited to coastal and Mediterranean-style gardens. Plant in a sheltered, sunny spot for the best flowering and strongest fragrance. Water well until established, then it is largely drought tolerant. Trim lightly to shape after flowering, avoiding hard cuts into old wood. Half-hardy — protect from prolonged hard frost in cold gardens with fleece or a warm wall.
Yearly Lifecycle
Care Essentials
Balanced feed in spring. Mulch with garden compost or bark to retain moisture.
Watch For
- Pittosporum sucker
- Scale insects
- Aphids
- Frost damage in cold winters
Companions
Lavender, Rosemary, Cistus, Agapanthus
Pet Safety
Care Requirements
Light
Full sun to partial shade; thrives in sheltered sunny spots
Grows well in full sun or partial shade. Flowers most freely and produces the strongest fragrance in a sunny, sheltered position. Tolerates coastal exposure and salt-laden winds well.
Watering
Water until established; drought tolerant once settled
Water regularly during the first season after planting. Once established, Pittosporum tobira is drought tolerant and needs little supplemental watering except in prolonged dry spells. Container plants need regular watering year-round.
Fertilizing
Balanced feed in spring; mulch base annually
Apply a balanced granular fertiliser in spring to support fresh growth. Mulch around the base with garden compost or bark chips to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pruning
Light shaping after flowering; avoid cutting into bare wood
Prune lightly after flowering in late spring or early summer to maintain shape. Avoid cutting back hard into bare old wood as the plant recovers slowly. A second light trim in late summer keeps hedges tidy.
Mulching
Mulch in spring for moisture and root protection
Apply a layer of compost or bark mulch around the base each spring. This conserves moisture, improves soil, and protects roots from cold in exposed positions.
Growing Tips
Fragrance is the key feature
Position near a path, terrace, or seating area to make the most of the strong orange-blossom scent in late spring.
Thrives in coastal gardens
Excellent salt and wind tolerance makes this one of the best evergreen shrubs for exposed seaside gardens.
Prune after flowering
Wait until after the flowers fade before trimming. Pruning beforehand removes the flower buds.
