Pittosporum heterophyllum

Pittosporum heterophyllum is a Chinese pittosporum, which is quite similar to its relative, Pittosporum tobira, and is widely planted as a hedge.  Much less used than the Pittosporum tobira, it offers more fragrant spring flowers and narrower and more elegant evergreen foliage than its cousin. The drought and cold resistance of these two species are comparable, and they appreciate the same growing conditions. Very useful in a dry garden or by the sea, this pittosporum tolerates pruning well, even severe pruning, and shows tolerance towards most soil conditions. It can be included in an informal hedge, grown in a container or as a topiary. Its fragrance will perfume a whole section of the garden in spring! 

Pittosporum heterophyllum is sometimes considered to be the same as the Pittosporum truncatum, whose leaves, unlike its own, are often curled at the tips. This shrub, belonging to the Pittosporaceae family, is native to the dry regions of western China.  Rather columnar in its young years, over time it forms a dense and rounded bush of 2 to 3m (7 to 10ft) in all directions. Its greyish branches bear evergreen leaves that are light green and vibrant, with a lighter underside. They are alternate, entire, elongated, thick and leathery, with slightly undulate edges. They are of medium size, reaching 3 to 8 cm (1 to 3in) in length and 1.5 to 2.5 cm (1in) in width. Flowering takes place in late spring or early summer. The small flowers, 5 to 6mm (1in) in diameter, cup-shaped and pale yellow, emit a sweet fragrance reminiscent of orange blossom. They are gathered in clusters that appear at the ends of the branches as well as in the axils of the leaves, and are followed in autumn by the formation of a few round fruits that open to reveal red-orange seeds coated with a sticky and aromatic substance resembling resin. The name Pittosporum comes from the Greek words pitta, resin, and sporos, seed.

Hardy down to -10°C (14°F) in well-drained soil, Pittosporum heterophyllum requires a not too wet soil in winter, light, a warm location, sunny or even shady in hot climates, and protection from cold and dry winds. It tolerates salt spray well, which allows it to be used without reservation in an informal hedge, in a seaside garden. It can also be planted on a large slope or at the back of a flower bed. Pair it with Pistacia lentiscus, Olearia, Mytus, laurels, escallonias or combine it with the silver foliage of Atriplex halimus or variegated Photinia Pink Marble. A bit further from the sea, it will also accompany Oleanders, Eleagnus, Pineapple broom (Cytisus battandieri) or the oleaster (Elaeagnus angustifolia). In cold regions, it can be planted in a container on a terrace to enjoy its divine fragrance and Mediterranean charm.