Kohuhu
pittosporum tenuifolium
Also known as: ["Kōhūhū","Kōhukōhu","Tahitian cheesewood"]
Overview
A dense, evergreen shrub or small tree native to New Zealand, known for its glossy, dark green leaves and fragrant, dark purple flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Pittosporales |
| Family: | Pittosporaceae |
| Genus: | Pittosporum |
| Botanical Name: | Pittosporum tenuifolium |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or container in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging; ensure excess water can escape freely.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate slightly sandy or clay soils if amended.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to maintain shape; light pruning can be done anytime.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; can be pruned heavily if shaping is required, but avoid removing more than one-third of th
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct or bright indirect light daily; adjust for intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; move outdoors in spring/summer for optimal light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, fertile soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0); adaptable to a range of soil pH levels.
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; amend heavy soils with organic matter.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate temperatures; protect from extreme heat or cold.
Protect from frost; avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain moderate temperatures for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize in spring/summer only; dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; semi-hardwood cuttings root most reliably.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is developing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain 70–75°F (21–24°C) and high humidity.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; or cactus mix with added perlite.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, clean tools; maintain humidity with plastic wrap; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools; make cuts just above a leaf node or bud; remove crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Shape plant, remove dead/damaged growth, and encourage bushier growth; prune after flowering or in late winter/early spring.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris; dispose of pruned material.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins; avoid repotting during dormancy.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water until it drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use mulch to retain moisture and improve soil structure.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, stunted growth, or wilting; buds failing to open in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to dieback in prolonged cold; frost can damage new growth.
Solution: Move to a sheltered location; provide frost protection; avoid sudden temperature drops; mulch to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or leaf drop due to excessive heat and dry conditions.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest Pittosporum tenuifolium. The toxic effects are generally limited to digestive discomfort, though individual sensitivity may vary.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Pittosporum tenuifolium can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The toxic compounds primarily affect the digestive tract, causing discomfort but typically not severe systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicPittosporum tenuifolium contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and other mild symptoms upon ingestion. The physiological impact is generally limited to the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How fast does Pittosporum tenuifolium grow?
A: It grows at a moderate rate, typically reaching 1–2 feet per year.
Q: Is Pittosporum tenuifolium suitable for coastal gardens?
A: Yes, it is salt-tolerant and performs well in coastal conditions.
Q: Does Pittosporum tenuifolium require pruning?
A: Pruning is not strictly necessary but can be done to maintain shape or size.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Pittosporaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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