Pittosporum phillyreoides

Willow Pittosporum
Pittosporaceae
Evergreen, Shrubs, Trees, Decorative fruit or berries

PITTOSPORUM

These plants are valued primarily for their foliage and form, though they also bear clusters of small, bell-shaped, often sweetly fragrant flowers followed by fairly conspicuous fruits the size of large peas. All are basic, dependable plants with pleasing outlines when allowed to branch naturally. Prune periodically to enhance form, thinning out weak branches and wayward shoots. Some make good clipped hedges. Excellent for screens,windbreaks. Susceptible to aphids and scale insects; sooty mold on leaves is a sign of infestation.Ripe fruits (usually orange) split open to reveal sticky seeds; fallen fruit can be a nuisance on lawns, paving.

Pittosporum phillyreoides

Native to Australia. Slow grower to 12–20 ft. tall, 10–15 ft.wide. This species differs from other pittosporums in both habit and leaf shape; it is a weeping plant with trailing branches and dark green, very narrow leaves to 3 in. long. Blooms in late winter and early spring, bearing very fragrant yellow flowers. Deep yellow fruit follows the blossoms. Always looks best standing alone; its strong structure should not be diminished by competing foliage. Good by pool or patio. If drainage is poor,water infrequently but very deeply. Tolerates heat and aridity better than other pittosporums and has even naturalized in some desert areas.