Pittosporum tenuifolium Abbotsbury Gold - Kohuhu

Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Abbotsbury Gold', with its variegated evergreen foliage of bright green and light yellow, is undoubtedly one of the most vibrant varieties of Pittosporum with small leaves. This compact yet elegant shrub conceals black branches and subtle dark spring flowers under its very dense vegetation, the presence of which is revealed by a delicate and lingering fragrance with hints of honey. This plant, well adapted to mild climates and maritime climates, thrives in sunny, well-drained soil in a dry garden or in a large container in cold climates.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              Pittosporum tenuifolium, from the Pittosporaceae family, is native to the dry regions east of the Alps in New Zealand. Rapidly growing in its early years, the 'Abbotsbury Gold' cultivar  eventually forms a dense and rounded shrub that reaches a height of 2.5m (8ft) with a spread of 2m (7ft). Its foliage is its main asset. Its thin, purplish to almost black, ramified stems bear evergreen, alternate, entire, ovate, thick, glossy, leathery leaves with slightly undulate margins. They are small, not exceeding 3 to 4 cm (1 to 2in) in length. They are irregularly variegated with dark green and light yellowish green, around yellow veins. The fairly abundant flowers occur in late spring or early summer. The very small, bell-shaped black to purplish flowers, emit a honey-scented fragrance, especially noticeable at night. They are followed by the formation of a few round fruits that are initially green and then almost black when ripe.

Hardy down to -7C°/-10C°, Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Abbotsbury Gold' requires a dry, well-drained soil without excessive limestone, and a warm, sunny location protected from prevailing winds. It tolerates sea spray, allowing gardeners in coastal areas to use it as a specimen or in an informal hedge. In mild climates, it can also be planted on a large slope or at the back of a border.  Pair it with Pistacia lentiscus, Olearia, Atriplex halimus, lavenders, rosemary, Grevillea, Escallonia, or combine it with the silver foliage of Artemisia. In colder regions, it can be planted in a large container on a terrace to enjoy its delicate fragrance, architectural silhouette, and bright foliage.