Japanese Pittosporum
pittosporum tobira
Also known as: ["Nerum japonicum","Japanese Cheesewood"]
Overview
A dense, evergreen shrub with glossy, leathery leaves and fragrant, creamy-white flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","drought tolerant","shade tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Pittosporales |
| Family: | Pittosporaceae |
| Genus: | Pittosporum |
| Botanical Name: | Pittosporum tobira |
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":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with organic matter; cactus mix can be used with added compost
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning as needed
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; can be shaped without removing more than one-third of foliage
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct or bright indirect light per day; adjust for intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from harsh afternoon sun; place in filtered light indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid direct midday sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0)
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; test pH periodically
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate temperatures.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize in spring when new growth appears; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce feeding in fall.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), indirect light
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for drainage
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster root development
Timeline
Roots in 4–8 weeks; establish in 3–6 months
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open interior; heading back to reduce height; selective removal of crossing branches
Pruning Plan
Shape plant, remove dead/diseased growth, encourage bushier form
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/diseased wood first; make clean cuts; avoid over-pruning
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins
Pot Size
One size larger pot; increase diameter by 2–3 inches
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil mix; ensure drainage; water lightly
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots; add fresh soil; water lightly
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 early in the day to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use mulch to retain moisture
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, or wilting in extreme cold; scorching or leaf burn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf drop or dieback in temperatures below 20°F (-6°C).
Solution: Protect from frost with mulch; move potted plants indoors; use frost cloth for outdoor plants.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced growth in prolonged heat above 90°F (32°C).
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse pot periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume Pittosporum tobira berries. The toxins can irritate the stomach and intestines, leading to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Pittosporum tobira berries can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The toxins in the berries may cause irritation to the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicPittosporum tobira contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The berries are the primary toxic part, containing irritants that affect the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Pittosporum tobira toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Pittosporum tobira?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Pittosporum tobira require full sun?
A: It tolerates partial shade but thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Pittosporaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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