Sweet Pittosporum, Native Apricot
pittosporum undulatum
Also known as: ["Sweet Pittosporum","Native Apricot","Tick Bush"]
Overview
A large evergreen tree native to Australia, known for its fragrant flowers and ornamental value.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Pittosporales |
| Family: | Pittosporaceae |
| Genus: | Pittosporum |
| Botanical Name: | Pittosporum undulatum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: indoor or outdoor pot, or garden bed in sheltered location
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile soil with organic matter. A mix of potting soil, sand, and compost works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed year-round.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate pruning to reshape; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for health.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates shade but may become leggy with insufficient light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight to avoid scorching. For indoor placement, provide bright, indirect light or supplement with grow lights.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, fertile loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Thrives in 60–85°F (15–29°C). Tolerates mild frosts but prefers frost-free conditions.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; use shade cloth in summer; monitor temperature extremes.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer
Avoid fertilizing in winter; apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings taken from semi-hardwood growth.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is developing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–8 weeks; establishment may take 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above leaf nodes; remove crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant to maintain form, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim rootbound roots; replace with fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; inspect roots; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Apply water slowly to allow absorption and check that excess drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during spring and summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in extreme cold; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf damage or dieback in severe cases.
Solution: Protect with frost cloth in cold snaps; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced vigor.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid over-fertilization; water before and after application.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and midsummer. Dilute liquid fertilizers to half-strength for monthly applications during growing season.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that consume Pittosporum undulatum berries may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms. The toxic effects are generally limited to digestive discomfort, with no severe systemic toxicity reported.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Pittosporum undulatum berries by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The toxic compounds primarily affect the digestive tract, causing discomfort but not typically posing a serious health risk.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicPittosporum undulatum berries contain compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and discomfort when ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to the digestive system, with no severe systemic effects typically observed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Pittosporum undulatum invasive?
A: Yes, it is considered invasive in many regions outside its native habitat.
Q: Does it attract wildlife?
A: Yes, its fragrant flowers attract bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How tall does it grow?
A: It can grow up to 15-20 meters tall in ideal conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Pittosporaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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