Black Stem Pittosporum
Pittosporum tenuifolium
Also listed as Pittosporum fasciculatum, Trichilia monophylla
Also known as Kohuhu, Kōhūhū, Thin Leaved Pittosporum
Climate Match for your location
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A compact evergreen shrub with narrow, dark green foliage and small fragrant flowers. Valued for its elegant form and minimal maintenance requirements in mild climates.
Why grow it
Pittosporum tenuifolium offers a finer texture than many evergreen shrubs commonly used in temperate gardens, with narrower foliage that creates an airier visual effect. Its small, honey-scented flowers provide seasonal interest without the coarse appearance of broader-leaved alternatives. The species requires minimal pruning once established and tolerates coastal salt spray better than many comparable ornamental shrubs, making it useful where windbreak plantings are needed in maritime climates.
Watch out for
In regions colder than USDA zone 9, winter dieback or frost kill can be significant during harsh seasons, so site selection in a sheltered microclimate is important. The plant may become leggy if grown in shade or crowded conditions, requiring occasional selective pruning to maintain compact form rather than remaining naturally dense without intervention.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Pittosporaceae
Native Range
New Zealand
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
pH Range
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A compact evergreen shrub with narrow, dark green foliage and small fragrant flowers. Valued for its elegant form and minimal maintenance requirements in mild climates.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Black Stem Pittosporum grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Pittosporum tenuifolium offers a finer texture than many evergreen shrubs commonly used in temperate gardens, with narrower foliage that creates an airier visual effect. Its small, honey-scented flowers provide seasonal interest without the coarse appearance of broader-leaved alternatives. The species requires minimal pruning once established and tolerates coastal salt spray better than many comparable ornamental shrubs, making it useful where windbreak plantings are needed in maritime climates.
Watch out for
In regions colder than USDA zone 9, winter dieback or frost kill can be significant during harsh seasons, so site selection in a sheltered microclimate is important. The plant may become leggy if grown in shade or crowded conditions, requiring occasional selective pruning to maintain compact form rather than remaining naturally dense without intervention.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Pittosporaceae
Native Range
New Zealand
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
pH Range
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
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