Pittosporum tenuifolium - Kohuhu

Pittosporum tenuifolium or small-leaved Pittosporum is native to New Zealand. It is a vigorous and dense shrub with an upright habit and beautiful glossy green foliage. Its shiny small leaves have a vibrant light green colour and are marked by a pale cream to yellow central line. In May-June, its small dark flowers release a delicious honey fragrance, especially at night. This plant thrives in mild climates and will do well in sunny, well-drained soil in a dry garden or in a large pot which can be protected in cold climates. Suitable for coastal areas.

This Pittosporum belongs to the Pittosporaceae family and is native to dry regions east of the New Zealand Alps. It has a columnar shape when young, but with time it forms a dense, rounded shrub measuring 1.50 m (5ft) to 2 m (7ft) in all directions. Its black and slender branches enhance the elegance of its foliage. The plant has evergreen, alternate, entire, ovate, thick, glossy, leathery leaves with particularly undulate edges. The leaves are small, not exceeding 3 to 4 cm (1 to 2in) in length and 1.5 to 2 cm (1in) in width. The flowering occurs in late spring or early summer. The small cup-shaped flowers, less than 1 cm (1in) in diameter, release a fragrance that is particularly noticeable at night. They are followed by the formation of a few round fruits that start off green and then turn almost black when ripe.

Hardy down to -7C°/-10°C, Pittosporum tenuifolium thrives in dry, non-calcareous, well-drained soil in a warm, sunny location protected from prevailing winds. It tolerates coastal conditions, making it suitable for use in an informal hedge or a seaside garden.  In mild climates, it can also be planted on a large slope or in the back of a border. Pair it with Pistacia lentiscus, Olearia, lavender, rosemary, Grevillea, Escallonia or combine it with the silver foliage of Atriplex halimus. Further away from the sea, it can also be planted alongside Oleanders, Eleagnus, Pineapple Broom (Cytisus battandieri), or Russian Olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia). In colder regions, it can be grown in a pot on a terrace to enjoy its delicate fragrance and Mediterranean charm.