Pittosporum tobira is an evergreen shrub with glossy foliage and a dense, rounded growth habit. It is useful for foundation plantings, hedges, borders, and specimen plantings.
Quick Care Guide
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Well-drained soil
Water: Moderate; drought tolerant once established
Fertilizer: Light annual feeding
Pruning: Shape as needed
Best Use: Foundation shrubs, borders, containers, hedges
Cold Hardiness: Generally suited to East Texas
Overview
Japanese pittosporum is an evergreen shrub capable of becoming a substantial landscape plant. ‘Wheeler’s Dwarf’ is considerably more compact, while ‘Variegata’ is valued for green foliage edged with cream.
Light Requirements
Plant in full sun to partial shade.
Variegated foliage can benefit from adequate light to retain strong contrast, although intense reflected afternoon heat can sometimes scorch foliage.
Soil & Planting
Provide well-drained soil.
Pittosporum is adaptable but should not be planted in a location that remains saturated.
Watering
Water regularly during establishment.
Once established, pittosporum is relatively drought tolerant, although irrigation during long East Texas drought periods will improve appearance.
Fertilizing
Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring if growth is weak.
Established plants generally require little fertilizer.
Pruning
Pittosporum tolerates regular shaping.
‘Wheeler’s Dwarf’ can be maintained as a compact shrub, while ‘Variegata’ can be allowed to grow more naturally.
Prune out dead or damaged branches at any time and perform larger shaping during suitable periods of active growth.
Seasonal Care in East Texas
Winter: Evergreen foliage provides year-round structure.
Spring: Fertilize lightly if needed and perform major shaping.
Summer: Water during severe drought.
Fall: Reduce fertilizer and maintain the desired form.
Pests & Diseases
Pittosporum generally has few serious problems, although scale insects and root problems can occur.
Good drainage is important.
Where to Find Quality Pittosporum
Gen1 Greenhouse offers Pittosporum tobira ‘Variegata’ and ‘Wheeler’s Dwarf’ for East Texas landscapes.
Other Care Guides
See our other Gen1 Greenhouse care guides for evergreen foundation shrubs.
